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atinyfeels · 5 months

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Ateez: he says something hurtful to you [3]

Masterlist // part one | part two

author's note: don't mind how rusty it is. its been four years, lets write a part three ♡ hope you enjoy!!

Seonghwa:

The sound of the bell dinging made you look up from your book. A young couple was walking through the door of the book store. They were holding hands and smiling as the older man at the front desk greeted them. You sighed and placed the book in your hands back onto the top shelf. This was the first time in 3 weeks you had managed to push yourself out of bed. Your apartment had become a sad lifeless room that you struggled to even call home.

Feeling like you made a mistake, you turn around and began walking towards the exit. As you opened the door, the cold spring air pushed towards you. Your apartment building wasn't far from the bookstore, a mere 5 minute walk. You were almost there when you noticed a man standing outside the door. He had his hood up and his jacket hood over his head, but you could recognize him from a mile a away.

"Seonghwa?" You call out, making the man look up and over at you. It was indeed him, he was dressed in all black and looked as if he hadn't slept. You walked up to him and stared at him for a moment before speaking again. "Do you want to come inside?"

He didn't verbally say anything, instead he only nodded yes. You opened the door to the building and walked up the stairs towards your apartment on the 3rd floor. When you both walked inside, you closed the door behind you and looked at him. He was scanning around the room, as if he was looking for something he had forgotten.

"What are you doing here, Seonghwa?" You asked, making him pause and look up at you.

"I think I forgot something," his words sounding more like a question.

You furrowed your eyebrows and crossed your arms over your chest. It had been 3 weeks since you seen him, what could he have forgotten this late? "Do you know what it is? If it shows up, I can drop it off another day."

He shook his head. "The thing is, I didn't forget anything."

"What do you-" he cuts you off, "I've been thinking of things to say, excuses that would make me come back here. Come back to see you. But the only thing I could think of was, I messed up. These past 3 weeks have been torture without you."

You blinked a few times, trying to make sense of what he was trying to say. "But you said...you said you didn't love me anymore. You were the one who packed up your things and left me."

"I-I know. I don't know what I was thinking at the time. The group was at a high popularity stage and we weren't seeing each other so often. You & I barely spoke and at the time I thought, maybe that's what I wanted. But when I told you I didn't love you and I saw the look on your face, I knew it wasn't what I wanted. But I couldn't take it back."

You swallowed hard, trying to fight the tears that you didn't even realize were appearing. "So what are you trying to say?"

"I don't want to be apart from you. I want to be your boyfriend, I want to stay by your side even when it gets rough. I want to make up for how much I hurt you during these past few weeks. Please, Y/N, let me come home."

Clearing your throat you continued to stare at him. "You're going to have a lot to make up for."

"I know," he says stepping forward and pulling you into a tight embrace.

Hongjoong:

You opened your front door to find a delivery driver standing there with a bouquet and a tablet.

"Y/N?" he asks, making you nod as before you sign your name on the tablet. "Have a nice day."

Before you even responded, he started making his way down the hall. Sighing, you closed the door behind you and grabbed the note that was attached to the vase. "I'm really sorry." You put the card back onto the holder and walked into the dining room. Ten other bouquets were covering your table, all of them with different messages, all from the same person. You placed the bouquet down on the table before pulling your phone out and dialing your boyfriend's number.

It didn't take him long to answer with an out of breath, "hello?"

Mentally, you smacked yourself in the face. "You must be a practice, I'll call you later."

"NO!" He shouts before you even get a chance to pull the phone away from your ear. "We were just about to take a break so you called at a good time."

For some reason, you felt as if that was a lie but you kept it to yourself. "I'm just calling to ask you when you're going to stop sending me endless amounts of flowers? My dining table is running out of room at this point."

"So you got my flowers!" He said in a more cheerful tone, "Did you like them?"

You sigh running your finger along one of the petals, "I'm not really a roses type of person. But they are pretty."

"Really? I'll have to change the flowers. Maybe I should've gone with a variety instead of all the same flower," he rambled, mostly talking to himself.

"Joong," you say, cutting him off. "You have to stop sending me flowers, I don't have room for them."

"I want to make up for the things I said the other day. They were hurtful and I was putting myself before you." He tells you, his tone changing to a more serious tone.

"I was in the wrong too," you confess, finally admitting to yourself that he wasn't the only one in the wrong in this situation. "I was being petty when I called Yeosang instead of you. I really wanted to tell you but I was being too stubborn about our fight. I'm sorry for how I treated you."

"Does this mean I can come home now?"

You chuckle and roll your eyes, "you were always allowed to come back home."

Yunho:

"She's my girl, isn't she?" San says loudly, laughing as he and Wooyoung go over what was said in your classroom.

You were blushing furiously as Yunho was looking down at his drink, his cheeks flushed as well. The two of you were aware of how dramatic your altercation with the girls in your class. It was as if it was something straight out of a teen show.

"Honestly, we should direct a movie for it!" Wooyoung cheered as San agreed.

"It will be a huge hit amongst romance fans," San agreed before taking a drink of his water. "Maybe we can have IU play as Y/N."

"Alright they get it," Seonghwa said, making the two boys quiet down and change the topic. Seonghwa looked over at you as you began scooping a piece of cake onto your fork. "We're happy you were able to join us, Yunho has talked about you a lot."

Your head shot up towards Yunho who was looking at Seonghwa with wide eyes. You could tell he was silently cursing at the older member in his head. "Well, I'm glad I was able to join," you say, smiling back at Yunho.

After parting ways with Yunho's friends, Yunho insisted on walking you home. The two of you were walking in silence, neither of you able to think of something to talk about.

"So," you blurt out, making him look down at you. "Why did you call me pathetic?" You swallowed hard, this wasn't what you wanted to talk about. But you weren't going to be okay without talking about it.

Yunho stayed silent for a moment, trying to find the words. "For years, I had this image of me as this guy who had multiple girls on his arm and couldn't keep a stable relationship. But that's not true, I've never been the type to play with girls. I've never done random hookups and honestly girls don't confess to me. Everyone just made up this person in their head and I kind of went along with it."

You looked up at him as he brushed his fingers through his hair. He let out a sigh and continued. "But when I first met you, you didn't pay attention to me. You didn't care about the rumors circling around me. And then when I saw the letter with my name on it, I..I don't know. Maybe I got worried you started seeing me like everyone else did. My ego got ahead of me and I spoke without even thinking about it. I've never thought of you as anything, pathetic. And I am really sorry for saying those things to you."

You give him a small smile and grab his hand with yours. "This is the reason why I fell for you. I knew you weren't the guy everyone expected you to be, you're much more than that."

Yeosang:

It felt like you had been walking for hours until you had finally reached your place. Your heart was aching with how much it had gone through in just one day. "You're so goddamn annoying." "I didn't know how to let you down gently." You felt like he saw you as a joke, like someone in his shoes couldn't possibly be with you. You've never felt so down on yourself until today.

You wiped the tears off your face and made your way into the bathroom. Reaching down, you started the water in the tub and looked at yourself in the mirror. Your mascara was visibly on your cheeks, your face red from rushing home.

Slipping your fingers under the hem of your shirt about to take it off when there was a buzz at the front door. You sighed and turned off the bath water before making your way out of the bathroom. Walking through the living room and up to the door, you placed your hand on the knob before pushing it open. Yeosang stood before you, out of breath and looking very distraught.

"What, Yeosang?" You ask, crossing your arms over your chest. For the first time, you didn't care how you looked in front of him. You didn't bother attempting to fix the makeup on your cheeks or brushing your hair back with your fingers.

"I care about you," he starts, "I care about you a lot. And I know right now, in this moment it's not the romantic feeling you feel. But I am attracted to you, Y/N. But I'm not ready for any kind of relationship and I don't want to give you any kind of false hope. I didn't mean to call you annoying, you could never annoy me. I should have been more mature and told you how I originally feeling instead of insulting you and giving you false hope."

"You hurt me, Yeosang," you choked out, feeling the tears build up once more. "I apologize for overwhelming affection I showed. I should've thought before doing so. But you made me feel so awful, and I understand that you don't want a relationship but there's literally any other way we could've handled this."

He nodded in agreement, "I agree. And I'm really sorry for how I treated you. If one day, we can fix this, I really hope I can make it up to you."

"Me too. Goodnight, Yeosang." With that you closed the door and pressed your back to the wall with a sigh

❀ 6 months later ❀

You anxiously paced back and forth in your living room. Twiddling with your thumbs as you waited for buzzer. When the sound finally happened, you took a deep breath and opened the door. Yeosang appeared in front of you with a smile on his face, holding a flower in his hand for you.

"You look amazing," he tells you, handing you the flower and planting a kiss on your cheek. "So, are you ready for our date?"

You smiled back at him, "absolutely."

San:

Your chest was rising fast as your laid down the mat. You had just finished another work out with San, but now you were beginning to regret your life choices. When San told you he'd help you, you didn't realize he was going to make your whole body feel like jelo.

San rushed up to you with a smile on his face, "How was it? Did you feel the burn? Did you enjoy the workout? I was thinking next time, we can add more reps, maybe a little more cardio."

Oh how you wanted to throw this man out a window. You squinted your eyes at him, "Go away."

He laughed and sat down beside you, "You're so cute, you know that?"

Wincing at the pain, you pushed yourself up and sat beside him. "There's nothing cute about making your partner suffer, San. I'm never coming with you again. And if I do, I'm definitely not training with you."

San leaned over and gave you a kiss on the head, completely ignoring how damp your hair was. "How about we get out of here and grab some snacks for a movie night?"

You quickly looked up at him with hopeful eyes, "ice cream too?"

He laughed and nodded, "ice cream too."

Excitedly, you got up and held your hand out for him. "Come on, I need to shower after this."

"Yeah, you really do smell pretty bad," he joked as you helped him up.

You eyes widened as you let go of his hand, making him fall back onto the floor with a thud. "Says the one who smells like a swamp monster."

"Hey!" He called after you as you left him alone and went towards the locker rooms.

Mingi:

You smirked at yourself in the mirror as you stared at yourself in the mirror. The tight red dress was going to get you in trouble and you were hoping it would. The more you thought of Mingi getting jealous the more you found yourself being attracted to him. Tonight there was a party that was being thrown for another idols birthday.

You were showing up later than the Ateez members, but you decided to go ahead without them and with a group of girls instead. When you arrived to the party, you hadn't realized how packed the party was going to be. Mingi was friends with many, but you never thought that you'd be in a room with this many people before. You made your way over to a table where a couple of Stray Kids members were sitting.

"Changbin!" You said cheerfully, he stood up and greeted you with a hug while Felix gave you a polite nod. You took a seat beside Changbin and looked around the room. "Have you guys been here long?"

Changbin shook his head. "We just got here maybe ten minutes before you. You didn't come with Mingi?"

"No, they said they were going to be a little later than me so I came with others."

The three of you stayed sitting down, talking and making jokes when you felt someone tap your shoulder. Looking up, you find Mingi his eyes piercing down into yours. Oh, he was not happy.

"Sorry guys, but I've got to take this one home, she's got a long day tomorrow," Mingi tells the other two, not even looking at them.

Mingi grabbed a hold of your hand and helped you to your feet before making his way towards the door. You could overhear Felix say, 'Long day tomorrow or long night tonight?'. Mingi guided your way out the door before the two of you were on the sidewalk. He rose his hand, waving towards a taxi driver that was headed in your direction.

When the taxi stopped, Mingi opened the door for you and whispered in your ear. "You're aware what you did, yes?"

Your body shivered at his words as you nodded, feeling a bit excited. "I know."

"Good, get in."

You slide into the car and Mingi follows after you. He tells the driver your apartment complex as he places his hand on your knee. The thought you having an endless night made your cheeks flush. You couldn't wait to get home.

Wooyoung:

"What are friends for?"

For some reason, for the first time, you didn't like the sound of those words coming from him. As you continued allow Wooyoung to sweet talk the sponsors, you found yourself stealing glances at him every chance you could.

You were staring at him for a moment when you felt a hand touch your arm. Looking up, a woman old enough to be your grandmother was giving you a warm smile.

"You must really love him," she says, cutting you off guard.

"O-Oh, we aren't dating. We're just friends, we're really close and I didn't want to be here alone," you explain, giving her a soft smile.

She shakes her head, not believing a word you say. "You wouldn't look at someone that way, unless you were in love. And whether you realize it now or not, you are in love with him. I looked at someone like that before."

"Your partner?"

Her smile fades a little before she brings it back. "No, the person I was in love with never found out. They were the right person, but the wrong time. If you're in love with this man, you should tell him. Before it's too late."

"Y/N." The sound of Wooyoung's voice made you turn around to find him looking at you. "Are you ready to go? I think this party is starting to become a bummer." You turn back to look at the woman, but you don't find her anywhere in sight. "Y/N? What are you looking for?"

Looking back up at Wooyoung, you shake your head. "N-Nothing. I'm ready to go."

Before waiting for a response, you make your way towards the exit. Wooyoung followed behind quickly, calling your name as you followed you to the lobby and outside the building.

"Y/N!" He yells once more, making you stop but you didn't turn around. "What happened in there? What's wrong?"

Your head was flooded with so many thoughts. Your heart racing of the thought that you could possibly be an item with Wooyoung. Was that something you wanted? You were so comfortable around him, the thought of being intimate with him gave you butterflies in your stomach. Turning around, you look at the very confused Wooyoung.

"Y/N?"

"I can't be friends with you, Wooyoung." You didn't even think before you blurted it out. Your hands were shaking with how anxious you were.

Wooyoung looked at your shocked and then became sad, "Is it because of what I said earlier? I promise you, you are an amazing person. You're gorgeous, fantastic and-"

You cut him off, "I think I'm in love with you!"

You silently cursed at yourself as the two of you went silent. You couldn't bare to look at him, you didn't want to know what look was on his face. The words came out without you thinking about it. Maybe you didn't have to think about it. You were definitely in love with Wooyoung.

"Want me to help you figure it out?" He asks, his voice suddenly much closer now. He was standing right in front you, without you even noticing that he moved.

"W-What-" was all you managed to get out before Wooyoung lifted your head up with his fingers. Without hesitation, he pressed his lips onto yours. Your stomach felt like it was doing flips as you places your hands on his hips.

Once you pulled away, he looked down at you and licked his lips. "I've been in love with you this whole time."

"You have?" You say, sounding more like whisper.

He nods, "Did that help you figure it out?"

"I-I'm not sure, can we do it again? Maybe a little longer, I didn't get a good read." Wooyoung let out of laugh before he nods and presses his lips onto yours once more.

Jongho:

You gripped onto the plastic bags that contained 8 lunch boxes. Today was the first day you were going back to the practice room since you talked to Jongho a couple days ago. You felt more nervous than you ever had. The thought of seeing Jongho again, knowing he had feelings for you, made your stomach do flips.

Knocking on the door, you pushed it opened. "I brought food!" Looking up, you noticed how dark the practice room was. "Hello? I could've sworn Seonghwa told me they were here today."

You flipped on the lights and noticed a table in the center of the room with a bouquet of flowers sitting in the middle. Setting the bags on the floor, you walked up to the table and read the note that was there.

"Will you do the honor of being my girlfriend? P.S turn around."

Turning around, you find Jongho standing by the door. His cheeks were already flush as he made his way over to you.

"You did all of this?" you asked, meeting him halfway.

Shyly, he nodded. "I didn't want a big grand gesture but you deserved something a little more than that." You smiled at him, which made him return it. "So what do you think?"

"I'd love to be your girlfriend!" You say, wrapping your arms around him and pulling him into a hug.

A loud applause made you pull away and find the rest of the members cheering. Your brother looked at you and gave you the thumbs up, making you blush.

"Well now that that's settled, can we eat now?" San whined, already looking through the bags to find his box.

You and Jongho laughed and walked over, helping everyone sort out their boxes. The 9 of you sat in a circle, you sitting in the middle of Jongho & Seonghwa.

"So where are you going for your first date?" Wooyoung asked, making everyone look over at Jongho.

Jongho shook his head, "I'm not telling any of you." Seonghwa cleared his throat and looked over at him. "Oh right, we're going to Lotte World." The group laughs as Seonghwa nods, approving the choice.

"I can't wait," you say to Jongho, giving him an excited smile before he smiles back at you.

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they-call-me-emmy · 10 months

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The Past is The Past 3

Part 1 and 2 on my account <3

Tara Carpenter x Fem!Reader

Summary: Tara was faced with her 3 ghostface, and this time got so seriously injured she was in a coma. When she wakes up, she has no memory of the past 3 years...including you, her girlfriend.

Notes: Imagine this as our gals scream 7...since Jenna apparently quit and left me fucking DYING

Warnings: Uh, injury, violence, blood, our boy ghostyface with knives. Coma and memory loss if thats even a warning. Swearing. Uhm. Shitty 7th grade writing.

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Tara pushed the food around her plate using her fork. She'd barely eaten a bite all dinner, busy glaring at Sam and avoiding any sort of eye contact with Y/N.

"So." Sam began, putting a hand to her mouth and pausing, to finish chewing. "Y/N. How's life been treating you? I haven't seen you around in a while."

There was a second of silence as Y/N finished her food.

"Fine." She stated, setting her fork down on her napkin. "Work's been rough, but nothing besides that."

Sam nodded. "You work at that bookstore, right? The one with the bunny in the window? I drive by it on my way to the grocery store."

Tara had no idea what they were talking about. She hadn't gone shopping since she'd come home. What bookstore? What bunny? It was like listening to people speaking nonsense.

"Yeah. That's the one. Shifts have been longer recently, we're low on staff."

Sam nodded, continuing to eat. Y/N cleared her throat.

"Tara," Tara startled from her daze at the sound of her name, in Y/N's voice no less. "Sam's been telling me your getting back into horror? Is that true?"

Tara glared at Sam.

"I've always been into horror."

Y/N nodded, pursing her lips, sensing the tension in the room. The need to just...not talk.

"I was-" Y/N cleared her throat and took a sip of water. "I was wondering if maybe you wanted to watch some of your favorites...y'know, the few we watched in the last year you really enjoyed? I wouldn't mind re-watching them with you."

Tara couldn't help but feel weird. She's watched movies with this girl. She'd watched horror movies. She'd watched horror movies and enjoyed them. With this girl? This girl she hardly knew now?

"Maybe."

Y/N nodded.

"I've been busy lately." Tara pushed a cooked carrot into her napkin. She didn't like those.

Sam rolled her eyes. "Tara, you've been sitting on your ass for the past week-"

Tara suddenly stood up. "I'm finished. I'm going to go wash the dishes." She took Sam and Y/N's plates and left without another word.

Tara knew they'd talk the moment she left. She hovered at the door, running the sink in the background so they'd think she was cleaning. Maybe they'd mention the big thing tonight. Maybe they'd say something that would finally help her understand her past.

"I'm sorry she's being an ass." Sam's voice was muffled through the kitchen door.

"It's fine. I wasn't expecting a heartwarming welcome. I mean, come on, I'm practically a stranger to her. And it's hard on her too, Sam. Remember she's struggling too."

Tara would have felt mad if anyone else had said this, as if they pitied her and felt sorry for her state of mind. But hearing those words, those words in Y/N's sweet voice...felt like reassurance that someone understand how she'd been struggling.

"I know...I'm trying to get her to...connect. Y'know? Re-enforce those bonds...god, you two were like peas in a pod. I can't imagine how long it'll take for that to be back, especially with her new...attitude." Sam sounded empathetic, but there was still a twinge of annoyance in her voice.

"I'm not expecting it to just click again...but I can wait. I'm assuming you haven't told her?" Y/N asked.

Tara could feel her heart beat a little faster. Was this it? Was she about to learn what this secret was that everyone seemed so desperate to avoid?

"No. I don't feel like it's the right time. I mean, you see the way she is. Putting that much more pressure on her is bound to do no good."

"You have to tell her at some point." Y/N said. "You and her would both prefer you telling her rather then her randomly learning one day, or even worse, getting a flash of memory from it. The doctor did say those happen, especially with traumatic experiences, at least in her case."

"I don't feel like now is the right time."

"Soon, Sam. Please. The girl deserves to know. This is important."

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I'm a slut for comments people.

#jenna ortega x reader #jenna ortega x you #jenna ortega #tara carpenter x you #tara carpenter x reader #tara carpenter

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mikedfaist · 3 months

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been thinking about non famous reader lately and i desperately want her to have a really cute job like being a librarian and that’s how they have their meet cute🥺

first i just need to get it off my chest that i am a dumb millennial and i've seen people throw around "meet cute" recently and i was so confused, like i thought i was mishearing everyone. jason segal even said it in an interview and it was bugging me so bad, and then seeing you say it i finally looked it up and i finally have clarity.

I love that you mention a library, because I always imagined she’d work in a bookstore. (Joe Goldberg vibes minus the murdering, stalking, etc.). I’ve even tossed in the idea of her working in a cute little diner, or a record shop, or a café. He would become a regular at the café solely in hopes she’s working. Subsequently, she would memorize his order in hopes of his return. He would sit in his usual spot in the back corner near the display of pastries, typically writing on his laptop – when you’ve asked him about it, he informs it’s a screenplay – and less typically he’s reading a book. He would later open up about how he would struggle to focus on the book when his mind was preoccupied on you.

At the bookstore, he first spots you sitting by the cash register reading Animal Farm. You’re popping your bubble gum, twirling strands of your hair and grimacing at pages with a mournful expression. He wanders the fiction aisles, skimming over titles with nothing specific in mind – except for you, that is. He’ll periodically peak around the corner to catch a glimpse of you, and periodically you’ll be replying to a text, or be mindlessly staring out of the storefront.

“Are you finding everything okay?” He breaks from his trance, and seeing now you staring at him with a grin. “Need help with anything?”

“Uh…” He doesn’t, but he wants to. “Have any recommendations?”

“That’s pretty vague.” You laugh, walking out from behind the counter. “What’s your poison?”

And that’s where it begins. The two of you wandering the aisles, her pulling books from the shelves and setting them in his arms without a second thought. He leaves with five, and begins reading them as soon as he gets home. It’s also not until he gets home that he pulls the reciept out from one of the books to find your number scrawled nearly illegibly at the bottom.

Let me know which is your fav.

#mike faist #mike faist imagine #mike faist x reader

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spicerackofblorbos · 7 months

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Chapter 1: November

☾ Pairings ➼ Levi Ackerman x fem!mute!Reader (she/her pronouns), set in a modern semi-fictional world

☾ Summary ➼ Due to childhood trauma, you find yourself an adult without the ability to speak. After years of working on it, you have found ways to live without a voice. Now here in your late 20s, you are 5 months in getting used to a new town. On a fateful day in late November, you and your adopted sister visit a local bookstore-café, unaware of the friendships about to blossom. Throughout the months, one friendship in particular develops into something more.

☾ Content/Warnings ➼ fluff, slowburn, oblivious feelings, angst, mention of minor character deaths, trauma, illness, adoption, mentions of fire, disabilities, alcohol use, very light nsfw mentions, eventual smut (these update with every chapter)

☾ Author's note ➼ Hey guys! This is my first time writing fanfiction in a loooooong time, like the last time I wrote was probably in 2011. So with that said please be kind with any feedback or comments. I hope you enjoy! (also I made Hange's pronouns she/her/them/they)

Edit (11/27/2023): Hey guys, welcome to my little world of Unspoken Words. I have quite literally used this story as a way to better myself as a writer. As you read on, you may find that I've progressed (ofc I have a long way to go) but because of that, my first few chapters might be rough. With your patience, you may find a liking to this story as I know I've loved writing every word of it.

☾ word count ➼ ~7.1k

20-something years ago

You’re not sure how, but you find yourself sitting in the back of a big, white van. Red and blue lights danced in your eyes, and it felt like a thousand people surrounded you. Something plastic is placed on your face then you are instructed to breathe in deeply. You thought it was funny to be told to breathe, like you don’t just do it naturally, but you follow instructions regardless. It’s hard though, every part of your body hurts, chest included. Every breath you take feels like your insides are on fire.

‘Fire’, you think.

Everything is on fire.

Present Day

Levi stood blank faced as he meticulously cleaned the blender station for what felt like the 100th time today. The late afternoon rush had just tapered down so he took advantage of the next to empty café to clean as much as he could before closing for the evening.

“It’s 20 degrees outside, how are people still wanting frozen drinks.” he murmurs to himself, placing the blender back in its spot. Levi turns to the front counter and slings the towel he was using to dry things onto his shoulder.

His best friend, roommate, and business partner could be seen restocking some books on tall shelves, a gentle smile lighting up his boyish features. It’s been about a year and a half since they started this business venture together and they had no idea at the time how successful their bookstore-café combo would be in this small town.

Erwin’s thirst for knowledge kept their shelves as variable as ever while Levi’s love for perfecting the art of tea kept the drinks flowing. The problem, however, was Levi’s lack of people skills. He was seldom seen at the register, nor would you ever see him smile or talk to the customers. He often would leave you with a grunt and a swift turn after handing off the drinks.

No, for that, they had hired a couple of local highschoolers to do the facing work.

“Mr. Smith, Levi?” a soft voice rang out to the left of him. Levi shifted his attention to a taller girl with shoulder length raven hair standing next to him. Being as Mikasa is his cousin, they found early on how weird it was to be called ‘Mr. Ackerman’ as they shared the same surname. It was this connection too that got them to where they are today.

“Would it be okay if Eren and I take off a little early tonight? We have some big tests coming up and we’d like to take some extra time to study.” Mikasa shifted her dark eyes to the darkening windows as the sun set just over the horizon. Pinks and oranges flooded the partially clouded skies.

”Tch.” Levi could not help but roll his eyes. He raised a brow at her and leaned back against the counter behind him for support. “Sure, I guess,” he continues. “But do you really need it or is it for that blockhead?”

As if summoned by his words, Eren comes up from behind Mikasa and wraps a red scarf around his girlfriend’s neck, both of their jackets hanging off one of his arms. Eren is a good kid, always on time and followed directions, but the amount of sass he held in his body was something else. Levi and Erwin did not mind though, as he added a certain energy in the café that the customers seemed to enjoy. The two men wouldn’t say it out loud, but they really appreciated having them both on the team.

“Hey, I heard that. And yes, I need to study desperately. Econ is so hard and for what?!” Eren’s teal eyes widened for emphasis. To add to it he even put on a fake pout.

“I-”

“Just take the trash with you on the way out and you’re good to go.” Erwin piped up from behind a bookshelf.

Mikasa nodded in acknowledgement towards the voice, a silent thank you. Like Levi, she was not one for many words. He once thought it was an Ackerman thing but then he thought back to his annoying uncle and changed his mind quickly.

With that, she and Eren both untangled the aprons from their bodies, grabbed their belongings, and picked up the trash bags that were already taken out of the cans. They opted to leave through the back since the dumpsters were located that way. Again, Levi wouldn’t say it to anyone out loud, but he really did like those kids.

Erwin could be heard stacking more books into the shelves which left Levi to polish the counters again. It was the last hour before they closed so it stayed quiet for the most part, only interrupted by the sounds of scuffling shoes and books being placed on hard surfaces. Light jazz filled the rest of the silence. Then the bell signifying new customers rang from the front.

“Levi, can you grab that?”

The raven-haired man just huffed in response then stepped over to the register. His eyes fell on two figures right in front of him. A frazzled brunette and... you.

Due to the season, you are bundled up in a thick parka and knitted beanie. A big scarf wraps around your neck and face so that all Levi could see is your flushed cheeks and thick lashed eyes. Truthfully, you reminded him of a marshmallow.

“What’ll it be?” he asks, deadpan. The brunette is the one to respond, the voice loud enough to make him wince.

“Hmmm... well one English breakfast tea latte with lots of room for sugar aaaaand I’ll take a peppermint hot chocolate. Oh, and extra whip! We’ll drink it here.” She fished out a card with a dramatic thwip and handed it to Levi’s outstretched hand. Their café is one of those where if you were to stay, they offered washable cup ware as to keep the prices down on disposable cups. Not to mention the lessened ‘environmental impact’ as Erwin would say.

Levi glances at you before turning to make both orders. You give a small wave and smile a little, but he was already working quickly on the drinks.

He went into autopilot as he steeped the tea and steamed the milk. He really appreciated customers that ordered anything outside of coffee, especially when it came to tea. It’s not that he hated coffee, though it’s not like he liked it either, but it just wasn’t his thing. Coffee offered a different kind of bitterness that he wasn’t very fond of. With extra whipped cream in one and extra space in the other, he whirled around to place the drinks on the counter.

The one with glasses is the one that picks them up and they promptly walk in the direction of where you currently sit, one of the tables in the back corner by the window. You were stripped of your big parka and scarf, though the beanie stayed. Your eyes were wandering around the café in wonder, and Levi was pretty sure this had to be your first time here. But truthfully, he wouldn’t know, he didn’t make it his business to know his customers. That was Erwin’s and the kids’ job.

“The shelves are full and I’m exhausted.” Erwin came around the counter with a couple of empty boxes in his arms, heading straight for the back to the dumpster. Levi stepped back and leaned against the counter once again, his own black tea that had steeped while making yours cradled in his fingertips. He kept looking at his only customers while he sipped the black liquid. The teacup almost slipped out of his grip as he saw you dumping a large amount of sugar into your cup.

There you sit, extremely focused on the cup in front of you and lips pressed together tightly, almost as if you were afraid you’d put in too much. The sight would have been funny if you hadn’t just ruined your entire tea, he thinks to himself. You smile to yourself in satisfaction and put the sugar jar back where it came from. While you stir the sweetener in gently, the brunette in front of you talks animatedly. Hands were flying everywhere, and Levi could practically feel the energy radiating from the corner of the room. You were doing the same, silently laughing.

Suddenly the front door flew open, the bell ringing loudly with it. Levi grits his teeth, steeling himself for yet another customer interaction. But his shoulders dropped in relief at the sight of only Carly, Erwin’s girlfriend. She saunters up to the counter with a big smile aimed towards Levi and without even asking she slid behind the bar. Erwin had already made it from the back and was in the process of putting away the leftover ingredients from the day. Carly wraps her arms around her boyfriend and plants a big kiss on his face, to which Levi quickly looks away. It wasn’t weird for her to come in right as they were about to close.

What was weird, he thought, was the shock that flooded your face as you eyed the very public display of affection. Levi knit his brows in confusion as the brunette pivoted in her seat to see what you were staring at. Their face fell, any evidence of a good time completely erased.

“Carly?”

The person in question whipped around so fast at the voice and the panic that exuded from her was palpable. She quickly unwrapped herself from Erwin’s embrace.

“Hange.”

If it wasn’t for the jazz in the background, the lengthy silence that followed would have been deathly.

Carly clears her throat and laughs awkwardly.

“Uh, why are you here?”

The person named Hange just lifts their hot chocolate cup awkwardly, not really saying anything. Their eyes shift between Carly and Erwin, clearly understanding what had happened.

“I-I’m sorry, you guys know each other?” Erwin sounds cautious, like he already knew the answer. Of course, he would, he isn’t dumb. His piercing blue eyes survey the situation, going back and forth between the two.

“Well, uh. I-” Carly stutters, clearly at a loss of what to say in the predicament she found herself in.

“She’s my girlfriend.” Hange claims calmly.

This admission makes Erwin sigh heavily, confirming what he had pieced together. Levi stared at him in bewilderment as the man just chuckled quietly.

“Well. I suppose that’s it then.” And with that he turns on his heel and stalks off to the back room.

“Wait, Erwin I can explain!” She follows right on his heels and disappears into the back room as well. A minute later you can hear hysterical crying and calm retorts reverberating from the back. If Levi could shrink into the cabinets to get out of this situation, he would. Instead, he focuses on the other party who were having a very quiet and rushed discussion. Well, a one-sided discussion, as he only heard one voice.

Levi, realizing it was almost time to close anyways, rushes to close the distance between him and the front door. He really did not want to have to deal with other customers while the drama unfurled. So, he flips the door sign to ‘Closed’ and unplugs the ‘Open’ neon sign hanging in the window. A couple walks by about to open the door, probably out for a café date from the looks of it. But they were only met with a dead stare from the sharpest eyes they’d ever seen. With that, they briskly turned around and left down the sidewalk.

Levi spins around and from here he gets a better look at the two trapped customers. You were moving your hands all over the place like you were earlier. But with an even closer look he realizes you weren’t just talking animatedly with your hands; you were talking with them. You were signing.

You reacted to your partner’s conversation just fine, so it was clear you had some sort of hearing. Your scarf now hung loose around your shoulders, and it looked like you had tears brimming in your eyes. Levi swiftly walks back to the counter; this is obviously not a conversation he needed to be a part of.

“Hey, don’t worry about me. It’s only been a couple of months. Really, it’s better to find out now than 3 years from now.” They laughed without humor. You know when Hange was saving face for your sake, she was never as sly as she thought she was.

‘You don’t need to be strong right now.’ You sign then reach your hand out to touch her cheek softly. Physical touch had become your second language early on, if only to emphasize. Fortunately, Hange was okay with that and often embraced it with open arms.

“I know, my little strawberry. I just need some time to process everything.” They pat you on the head lightly with a small grin. You swat their hands, blushing at the nickname you were so graciously given so many years ago. But you nod back, knowing they would not change their mind.

The tall blonde glides through the back door, alone. His face was grim as he tugged loose the tie around his neck.

“Hange, was it?” He started walking towards you and your very startled sister.

“U-uh yeah. That’s my name! Listen I had no idea, I’m so sorry. I would have said something obviously but-”, they take a deep breath. “I’m sorry. What’s your name again?”

“Erwin Smith. There is nothing to apologize for as I can only assume there’s only one blame to be given. I hate that we must meet under such a circumstance, but it is truly nice to meet you.” He raises a hand waiting for a handshake.

Hange takes it after a second of processing, shaking the hand vigorously with both hands.

“Well, unfortunately it is what it is. I’m sure Carly and I will be speaking soon. I’m assuming she’s not just hiding back there.” They flick their gaze to the back door he had just come through.

“Ah well, yes. Long gone... how long were you two...?”

“Only like, 3 months or so. You?”

He flinched at that and murmured, “3 Years.”

Thinking back to her comment not 10 minutes ago, Hange bit their cheek.

“Oh man I’m so sorry.”

“No, please. It’s alright. None of this is yours or my fault. We couldn’t have known, but now we do.” Erwin chuckled to himself. You wonder if he’s trying to save face the way your sister did. His gaze now shifts to you. He is a very handsome man. To your extreme surprise, he starts signing to you.

‘I'm sorry, who might you be? I noticed you signing earlier. I know a little from the books I have read.’ His crystal blue eyes sparkle at you as he signs. You can’t help but break out into a huge grin. You sign your name back and compliment him on his raw signing form.

‘I am of hearing, though. So please feel free to talk, and I will sign back.’ You clarify to Erwin, the smile not falling from your face.

“That sounds like a plan. Levi, stop hiding behind the counter and come say hi.” Erwin calls out, not bothering to look over his shoulder. You hear a grunt in response and not 10 seconds later, the barista stands cross armed next Erwin. He nods a hello to each of you.

You knew he was shorter than you, at least a couple inches, based off the interaction at the counter earlier. But seeing him side by side with his friend was almost comical. But as short stature as he was, it did not keep him from holding himself with such authority. It made you nervous.

‘Thank you for the tea, it was very good.’ You sign, your sister translating in real time for you.

“Tch, are you sure? I saw you dump enough sugar in it to make it syrup.” Levi retorts dryly.

That makes you smile sheepishly. His fixated stare unnerved you a little, but you stare back regardless. Now that he was closer, a glass case no longer between the both of you, your eyes traveled along his face in close inspection.

He’s beautiful, you think to yourself. His features are sharp and angled. Steely gray eyes pronounced a permanent exhausted look. It was a shade of gray you’ve never seen before, and they were mesmerizing. As if he could feel you staring holes in his face, he flicks his eyes to the side, clearly uncomfortable. But you can’t help it, because really the most intriguing thing about him was not his metallic eyes. It was the scars that marred his porcelain skin.

A couple of scars ran down the right side of his face. The prominent of the two trailed from the top right of his forehead all the way down to his chin, cutting into his right eye and both lips. You’re pretty sure his eye was quite damaged due to the slight muted discoloration of the eye color.

He’s beautiful, you repeat to yourself. You glance over to Hange, and they just look over at you with a knowing look. You know she was just begging to ask Levi too, but she just shakes her head. So, you fold your hands together and pinch your lips together.

“Well!” Hange yells out, breaking the silence. “This human really needs a drink. Let’s all go! Erwin, I demand you let me treat you to a couple drinks!” She wraps an arm around your shoulders and laughs.

“A drink sounds fantastic; I will gladly take you up on that offer. Let me just close up rea-” He’s cut off by Levi raising both of his hands up in protest. You notice the two missing fingers on his right hand. The pointer and middle were gone. Whatever this man went through, you just had to know. But you toss those questions onto an ever-growing pile and bite your cheek.

“Erwin, I can close up. You go ahead.” Your sister just smiles widely and practically jumped up and down. The blonde man just clapped his hand Levi’s shoulder and smiled at him.

“Thank you. You’ll join us after? The usual place?” Levi just shrugs his shoulders in response.

Part of you hoped he would. You couldn’t place a singular reason why though.

Fifteen minutes later, the three of you found yourselves in a well-lit and very crowded bar. Somehow Erwin had snagged a table near the back wall. Heavy rock blares loudly from a live band maybe 20 feet away. Overwhelming was an understatement, but you grit your teeth and sit down on one of the stools.

“Whatcha want, my darlings?!” Hange yells over the music, slapping both hands down on the table and staring at the both of you.

“Whiskey neat, whatever they offer is fine.”

You sign the words ‘apple’ and ‘juice’ followed by a ‘thank you’. You’ve never been one for a drink. While it was tolerable to be around, you’d rather not have to taste it if you could help it.

Looking around, you see all manners of people surrounding you. Something about it makes your stomach turn but you shift in your seat to quell it down. You’re sure it’s only so crowded because of the prospect of a Friday night and the promise of no plans the following day. The town of Jinae was not anything special, but it was quaint. You and your sister found out quickly it was a place where everyone knew mostly everyone. After only settling down here from your hometown 5 months ago, you were still learning of all the local spots.

From the looks of it, this bar was one of those. “The Scouts” was an inviting place, decorated with dark greens and wood tones. The walls were littered with many frames of a lot of different people. You imagine it might have been local residents in various locations of the town. All of the wood was worn down, so it was clear this place has been in business for a while. A neon sign hangs above the stage where the live band played, something that resembled blue and white wings. It makes you wonder what the significance is.

Your thoughts are disturbed as a glass is placed in front of you. Realizing the dryness in your throat, you pick up the glass and take a big swig of the amber liquid. You’re met with a burning sensation, and you gag. This alerts Hange of the unfortunate mistake.

“Ah I’m sorry my little strawberry!! They do look quite similar though, don’t they?” They switch the glasses quickly and laugh. You notice the very noticeable cup size differences between the two and you stare at her quizzically. “I may have taken a shot while at the bar, sorry.” she adds on. It makes you shake your head, but you grab her hand reassuringly and chuckle.

‘I’m sorry.’ You sign at Erwin, and he just smiles back.

“Not a problem. But I have to ask, how was it?” A bushy eyebrow raises at you in amusement.

You just stick your tongue out and make a gagging gesture at him. You laugh though, not really upset.

Two apple juices in, the live band ends. Hange and Erwin are very deep in conversation, which you suspect might be about Carly. You can’t really hear what’s being said though. With the absence of music, chatter quickly fills the air. Honestly it was really starting to get to you. So, after tapping on the pair’s shoulders and signing where you were going, you find yourself leaning over the guard rail just outside the bar’s door.

The sun was already far gone. A crescent moon sits high in the sky and a smatter of stars surrounds it. The cold air felt very welcome on your very flushed face. You exhale a big sigh, which garners a puff of steam. It makes you laugh so you do it again. Then you start to wonder how long you might be able to last out here before getting frostbite when suddenly a body starts leaning against the rail next to you.

With a start, you whip your head to face the newcomer. Instantly you relax at the sight of Erwin’s friend. He was adorned in a big peacoat and his casual slacks. A tan turtleneck sweater peaks out from the jacket’s collar. His face was flushed as well, no doubt from the cold.

Levi.

He wasn’t paying you any mind though, instead his gaze laid upon the sky above, at the stars. You wave at him anyways and offer a small smile. He glances at you with a side eye and returns a curt nod.

Not one for words.

So, you both stand there in silence, staring up at the twinkling lights above. It wasn’t uncomfortable in the slightest. Something about his presence radiated a sort of calm, and you were happy to bask in it.

After a few minutes, he shifts his weight in your direction, so you face him. He’s staring up at you and it makes you swallow hard. His eyes glowed silver from the moonlight. Truly you have never been this fascinated with a person until now.

“You like the stars.” It wasn’t a question, more like a statement.

You nod in agreement, smiling to emphasize your love for them. He purses his lips at that. It seemed as if he wanted to say something else to that, but nothing came out. It just makes you frown a bit. You just have more questions that keep piling up. Everything about him just emanated mystery and it made you want to know all about him.

‘Are you okay?’ You sign to him, exaggerating your frown to show your concern. You’re only met with a look of confusion. You forget that he does not know much if any sign. And you kick yourself for leaving your communication tools at home. To be fair though, this is not where you expected to be tonight.

You then get an idea to use your phone to type to him but before you even reach into your pocket, you’re interrupted by a sudden blast of warm air as a couple stumbles out of the bar, both in a giggling fit as they cling to each other. They take off down the road, laughing even harder. The brief warm air makes you shiver, reminding you of the cold outside.

As if thinking the same thing, Levi catches the door before it closes and holds it open for the both of you. You’re suddenly well aware of the very loud singing happening from within and your eyes widen at the familiarity of one of the voices. You and Levi make your way to the voices and are greeted with the sight of Erwin and Hange duetting a Backstreet Boys song.

What a sight it was. The tall brunette, face flushed and glasses askew, had their arm around Erwin. He his blonde hair was quite tousled, and he looked like he was having the time of his life. They both swayed together as they belted out the lyrics. As if their smiles were contagious, you felt yourself grin. It was kind of cute. So, you pull out your phone and snap a quick picture, sure to show Hange in the morning. It was a good thing too, because the song ends right as you put your phone away in your bag. Levi clicks his tongue and huffs. You glance over at the noise and notice a small upturn to the corner of his scarred mouth. Noticing your gaze, his face vacates itself from any emotion as he stares back ahead.

“Oi! Eyebrows!” He calls out to his friend. Levi starts making his way to the stage, walking with a slight limp. Yet another question to add onto the pile. “I’m gone for 45 minutes and you’re already singing.”

“I’m fine! Just a couple drinks in.”

You all make your way to the table you had laid claim to earlier. You survey the table and count at least 6 more glasses, not counting your two. It was hard to see who drank what.

‘Are you okay?’ You sign to your sister, concern etched on your face. They just nod lazily and give a thumbs up with both hands. Levi is regarding you with a look of understanding, and it seems he realized that you had asked him outside. Music starts playing over the speakers again, and people start making their way to the dance floor. Hange squeals and downs the rest of her drink quickly.

“Erwin let’s go!” She grabs his arm, not waiting for a response. He gives a mock salute to the two of you and follows without question. Levi just clicks his tongue again and heads to the bar to get himself something. So, you plop yourself down on the stool and stare out into the room. Out of nervous habit you start fidgeting with the napkins in front of you. A moment later, Levi’s hobbling over with a tray of drinks.

“I got the idiots some water, they look like they need it.” He places the glasses down with a thud, including one of his own housing some sort of caramel liquid. Then he’s sliding something over to you and you’re about to protest that you don’t drink but you realize it’s not a glass. It’s a notepad and pen.

“If you need something, this might come in handy.” is all he says.

You’re quick to show your appreciation with a bright smile. You also note to yourself that you could have very well have used your phone to communicate but you were not one to disregard someone’s thoughtfulness. It makes something bloom in your chest, warm and comforting.

Your many years of not having a phone of course meant writing – a lot. Your handwriting evolved plenty with time so that meant it was extremely neat. It had to have been so that the reader would be able to read it without an issue.

First you write your name, as you realize no one had really said it out loud while at the teashop. Following that you add ‘I think your shop is wonderful, and I really did enjoy the tea you made.’ You also want to jot down the questions from earlier that were still swimming in your mind, but you hold yourself back. You tell yourself maybe later, granted if there would even be a later.

When angling the paper so he could see it, his eyes flit across the words quickly and you’re given a grunt in acknowledgement. Pulling back the notepad, you bite the inside of your cheek. While it wasn’t awkward being next to him, he sure made it hard to talk to. His cold demeanor gave you the feeling he wasn’t the type to talk about himself, especially with someone he just met. So, asking questions about him or his life was out the window. Likewise, he did not really seem interested in hearing your life story, not like you were planning to spill it anyways for fear of being met with disdain. You had plenty of experiences with that growing up.

Tapping the pen against your chin, your eyes drift around the bar room. There a multitude of people lingering about, shouting over each other to be heard. A couple sits in a corner, whispering who knows what to each other. Both of their cheeks are flushed and eyes heavy with lust. A handful of people are on the dance floor grinding away, your sister and new friend sticking out like a sore thumb as they dance with reckless abandon. All of this gave you an idea, remembering something you’ve read before many moons ago. You start scrawling on the paper again.

‘Are you a gambling man, Levi?’

You shift the pad back over to him and he glances down again after taking another sip of his spirit. He was holding his glass in a way you’d never seen before and honestly it was a little weird.

“Tch, hardly. Why do you ask?” He looks hard at you as you scratch something else down.

‘I propose a game to pass the time. Let’s make some bets about the random people in this room.’

He looks at you incredulously. You stand your ground, not averting your gaze even a little. When you don’t back down, he just scoffs and shakes his head at you.

“I literally could not care less about these people,” he clicks his tongue. “But I suppose there’s not much else to do so I’ll bite.” Knocking back the rest of his drink, he moves around you to lean back against the wall so that he is facing the rest of the crowd. You shift so that you are doing the same. You don’t overlook the proximity to the shorter man, nor the fact that your arms are almost touching. You start to scribble once more.

‘Winner gets to ask the loser one question.’ As his eyes fall on your words, he seems a little taken aback. Levi seems to think for a moment, like he’s weighing his pros and cons.

“One non-personal question.” He amends. You both nod in agreement. So, your eyes travel around the room, looking for your first target. It falls on a group not so far away.

‘I bet that gaggle of young girls over there are here for a bridal party.’

You point in the direction of the said group. Currently they were taking tequila shots, lime and all. All of them sparkled and were dressed up to the nines, save for the silly little hats adorning their heads. And they were having so much fun.

“No way,” Levi scoffs, “That has to be a 21st birthday. They all look like babies.”

Suddenly someone comes through a parting in the crowd with a tray of assorted colorful drinks garnished with cute little accessories. They all yell in excitement at the sight. One of the girls raises her glass and starts shouting.

“To Estelle! May your married life be full of infinite love, happiness, and orgasms!” They all cheer and take big gulps of their drinks, followed by more giggling.

Levi glances art you, his gray eyes dull in the dim bar light. An eyebrow lifts at you as well.

“How did you know?”

You do a sweeping gesture starting from one shoulder down to the opposite hip. He looks back over to the women and conveniently the soon-to-be-bride had faced your direction. She was indeed wearing a white sash sporting the word ‘BRIDE’ in bright pink letters. He huffs as he rolls his eyes, and you smirk at him in return. You press the pad over to him, already equipped with your question.

Levi scoffs at your question. As promised, it wasn’t very personal. You figured ice breaker like questions were a good start. But his pause made you question if this was a good idea, you didn’t want to run him off or make him uncomfortable. Then he clicks his tongue, and his face softens ever so slightly.

“My favorite hobby, huh? It would have to be cleaning.” He simply states.

Cleaning?

‘Like mopping, dusting, all that jazz?’

“Yeah, it brings me peace. I like the control. Plus, I can't stand filthy things, people, or places. It’s repugnant.” He scrunches his nose at the last statement. A laugh bubbles up and you can’t help but let it loose. You’re shot with a glare and a sharp tone.

“Funny?”

You shake your head no and smile lightly while your hands move adeptly on the pad.

‘Not funny, just amusing because it’s not something I would have expected. It’s different. If it makes you happy then it is an admirable hobby.’

Levi’s looking away from you now. If it wasn’t so dim, you would have seen there was a light dusting of pink color his cheeks and ears. He clears his throat and scans the room for his victim. His eyes land on the couple in the back corner whispering to each other. He notices their not-so-subtle hand movements as they felt each other up. Nodding in their direction, he looks back over to you, leaning close so you can hear.

“I bet that couple will get up in the next 3 minutes and excuse themselves to somewhere private.” Your eyes travel in that direction, only to look away hastily at such an intimate scene. You’re not able to think of a counter-bet because honestly, you’re thinking the same thing. Your eyes settle back to his face, but he’s already looking back at the couple. If he noticed you staring, he didn’t say. Suddenly his face is filled with a satisfied look, only to be replaced quickly with a look of horror. You follow his gaze again, afraid of what you might see.

Fortunately, it’s nothing risqué, as you catch the tail end of the couple slipping into one of the public, unmarked restrooms. But the thought of their future actions was enough to gross you out. Looking back at Levi, you scrunch your face up in disgust. He nods in understanding.

“This is why we don’t use public restrooms, especially in a bar.” He pinches the bridge of his nose with his good hand. “When I said somewhere private, I meant like a residence or something. Filthy animals, unbelievable. They better scrub that bathroom down. Maybe I should tell the bartender when they’re done. Maybe I should help clean.”

His retorts crack you up, your shoulders bouncing from silent laughter. He just stares at you impassively as he runs his fingers through his hair to get it out of his face.

“Well, it’s not like we should ruin their fun. Anyways I suppose I won. Let’s see... what’s your favorite color?”

You part your lips, dumbfounded. This was never an easy question, as you found joy in a lot of different colors. You bite your lip and start writing, but after a couple minutes Levi rips the pad from your hands out of impatience.

salmon

turquoise?

canary yellow!

orange

dark forest gre-

He just looks at you in alarm.

“Just pick one.” he scolds.

You snatch the pad back and scribble down, ‘It’s not that simple!’

“It is to me. White, easy.” You just stare right back at him, not believing what you just heard. Out of all the many shades and hues out there, this man decides the color white.

‘Why?’

“It’s clean.” is the only response you get.

It makes sense, you think. But seriously, this man was so weird. But like you said earlier, it was different and that made it refreshing to you. You start searching for your next bet.

As if in a scene from a movie you’ve seen a dozen times came to life, your eyes snap to a lone woman sitting at the bar, nursing a drink and playing on her phone. A couple seats down, you spot a few men chatting. One of the men is staring hard at the very oblivious woman. You nudge Levi with your elbow, not unnoticing the slight flinch from your touch. You point to the scene, and he is quick to understand.

“I bet when he walks over to her, she’ll get up and leave.” He says confidently.

Trusting your instincts, you scrawl back quickly as you notice the man started making his way towards the woman. Sticking your tongue out at him, you angle the pad to him so he could see.

‘Absolutely not. She’ll tell him off right away.’

To both yours and his surprise, not one moment later she throws the rest of her drink contents onto the man’s head. She gathers her belongings, throws a wad of bills on to the bar, then stomps out of the establishment. The rejected man staggers back to his friends, and they applaud him for his supposed gall. This event left you both stunned. There’s a moment of pause where you and Levi just stare at each other before all hell breaks loose as he starts talking and you start scribbling furiously.

“She walked away, I win.”

‘She threw that drink on him, that’s practically telling him off. And that happened before any walking off.’

“That hardly counts, no words were used.” He scoffs and folds his arms across his chest as he stares hard at you. You weren’t sure if the indignation was real or not, but it was evident in his face.

‘Words are not always needed to convey intent.’ You shoot back at him, shifting your weight to tap your foot defiantly. You would know this of course.

This makes Levi pause. He opens his mouth to say something but then Erwin and Hange came crashing into the little bubble you two had made. Suddenly the sounds of clinking glasses and mindless chatter came rushing in and you took a step back.

“Um, I think Hange might have had a little too much tonight.” Erwin says, to which your attention is drawn to a very drunk Hange. They were a blubbering, sobbing mess. Whining about things that ranged from Carly to her work stress and everything in between. Your sister rarely got this drunk, but you imagine the events from earlier might have been her breaking point. This was a sign to get her home.

You hastily round the table to wrap her arm around you and prop her up. Then after whipping a $20 out of your purse and throwing it on the table in front of the boys, you give them a grateful smile and sign to Erwin.

‘Thank you both for tonight. She and I had a lot of fun. But I need to get her home before she gets worse.’ As if on cue, they let out a loud wail and start sobbing into your shoulder. You shift your body to hold them closer so that you don’t drop them. Erwin grabs your $20 and shoves it back in your purse before zipping it up. He had left you no time to protest as he places a large hand on your shoulder and stares intensely at you.

“Please, let me take care of this. Tell them this was an exceptional time. And to please stop by the café again, we owe each a good, sober talk.” His bright blue eyes crinkled in the corners as he smiled at you warmly. “It was a pleasure meeting you too. I hope you join Hange on the café visits as well. I think Levi has warmed up to you just nicely.” He wiggles an eyebrow at his friend. Levi just shoves him back and rolls his eyes.

“Tch, fuck off. She’s alright, I guess.” He’s staring at you now, not as cold as before. “You owe me an answer next time we meet.”

You purse your lips at him and shake your head in disagreement.

‘I totally won that, don’t even think otherwise.’ You jot down lazily on the notepad still on the table. It wasn’t as neat, but you were propping up a whole human, you couldn’t help it.

“Are you sure you’re safe to get home okay? We can he-” You cut Erwin off with a wave of the hand. Their spot of choice was actually very lucky, as you only live a few minutes away. And to be honest, you needed the cold air. So, you sign a quick goodbye to your new friends and make your way out.

Walking down the snowy sidewalk, you pat Hange’s head as she grumbles about random things. She opted to walk herself, but you kept your hand in theirs to lead them in the right direction. She only stumbled a few times but overall, you were able to keep a steady pace. You note that before you left, her glass of water had been untouched, so you make a mental reminder to hydrate her before throwing her in bed.

‘Alcohol was not kind to those in their 30s’ you heard their voice say in the back of your mind.

As your steps left crunching noises in their wake, you peer up at the moon and glittering stars. A certain raven-haired and silver-eyed man etched in your brain. You wonder how soon it will be before seeing him again.

‘Levi’ you sign to yourself with a free hand. A smile cemented to your face the whole way home.

☾ Next Chapter: December

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gravedigginbbydoll · 9 months

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Hawkins University : The Munson Edition

AN: Hey y'all! I'm beyond sorry for the wait but I've been busy with moving and everything. This chapter is a bit of a shorter one, so I'm sorry. But it's comforting. Also, I swear there will be MUCH SMUT next chapter. Anyway, I hope you enjoy it! Also pls, remember that reblogs and comments are appreciated! I love feedback!

→ cliches: friends to lovers, heavy use of nicknames instead of Y/N, we're all just struggling college kids, Music Tutor! Eddie, Resident Assistant! Reader, good girl x bad boy, instant connections, 'I don't trust most people but I trust you', 'are we friends or more?', and 'I can't believe you're such a slut that you have a special dtf drawer...'

→ warnings: mature topics, insecurity, hurt and comfort, drinking and drug usage, strong language, bullying, mental health, discussion of suicide and self harm, mature thoughts, eventual smut, minors dni

→ pairing: modern!college!eddie x college!fem!reader

Chapter 7

Eddie's POV

Eddie hadn’t heard from you for almost 2 weeks. He was beside himself with worry. At the party, had been discussing with Chrissy about his costume when Argyle came up to him, rambling about you rushing out the door. Eddie felt his stomach sink. He was originally looking for you, but Chrissy had stopped him. She asked him what he was, and Eddie began playing off as the goofy class clown he was known as so as to hide the hurt she caused when he had last seen her.

After Argyle let him know about you rushing out the door, Eddie looked everywhere for you. The bookstore at the corner of Hawkins Town Square where you loved to thumb through stacks of old and well loved books. The coffee shop that doubled as a bar that was open late on the edge of campus, where you loved curling up on the velour dark green loveseat. Mr. Frosty’s, where you and Eddie first felt a tug to one another. You were nowhere to be found.

Eddie had called you over and over, voice raw by the 50th voicemail. His heart had felt sore, his mind swimming with worries. You were so strong and consistently hid your true feelings, trying to appear perfect. Eddie never pried too far, scared to push you away.

By 4 am, Eddie returned home, a small part of his heart hoping you would be on his sofa, the extra key he had given you in use. But he came into an empty and cold apartment, not a soul in sight.

Eddie had seen you the following week in class, later than usual, sitting in the back. He felt relief flooding his veins, about to speak to you once the class was over. However, he was stumped after you rushed out of class, feeling stung.

He asked around, no one seeming to know what happened to you to have you give Eddie the cold shoulder. To have you look so…hollow.

Until he got to Robin.

He had begged her to tell him what happened, her eyes betraying her with worry and nervousness. She sighed, giving in slightly but her answer just puzzled Eddie even more.

“Look Eddie, I can’t tell you. It’s not my place. Just give her some time, okay?”

Eddie couldn’t sleep. He couldn’t eat. He felt his heart sink deeper and deeper the longer this went on. You didn’t answer texts or calls. He felt like his stability was crumbling.

But he clung to the hope that something would change.

Eddie had waited until the two weeks were over to text you via Steve’s phone.

Can we talk?

He felt his heart leap out of his chest when you responded.

Sure

I can head over around 4

Just don’t tell Eddie, k?

Eddie’s stomach twisted in knots, guilt consuming him. He shouldn’t have pretended to be Steve, and it was clear that Steve was aware of the situation but was staying out of it. He just wanted his old best friend back. Or at least to apologize.

Eddie waited by the door, pacing back and forth, his insides flopping like a fish. He didn’t know how you’d react to the set up. Or if you would even stay.

A knock sounded at the door, causing Eddie to jump and his heart to beat faster. He opened the door, staying behind it as you walked in, rambling. You were clearly frazzled, still in your work polo, a cup of iced coffee in one hand and your keys in the other. Eddie let you talk, his heart pounding as he softly closed the door, your back to him.

“Look, I don’t know what Robin told you but I just need some space and time. I know-”

“Bug…,” Eddie softly interrupted, hands shaking as he let the familiar nickname escape his mouth.

You froze in place, turning around to look at Eddie. His heart broke as he saw your tired eyes and almost sickly face. You looked on the verge of tears. Your hands tightened on your coffee, your knees a bit shaky.

“Eddie…Did you text me?,” You asked, your voice quivering with emotion. Eddie couldn’t pinpoint exactly what the feeling was but he felt a tug at his heart. He nodded, causing you to sigh shakily, your shoulders slumping.

“I…I have to go,” You muttered, eyes glassy with unshed tears, trying to rush past Eddie to the door.

Eddie felt panic prick at his nerves as he stepped in front of you, eyes sorrowful and longing. He leaned down to meet your gaze that was trying to focus on the welcome mat at the door.

“Please…Just…tell me what happened? I can’t stand this…I miss my best friend,” Eddie choked out, his throat tightening as he felt the prick of tears at the back of his eyes. His hands clenched and unclenched, trying to reach out to you.

You bit your lip, looking at Eddie's shaky hands. You stayed quiet for a bit. Finally, when you spoke up, your voice was thick with tears, Eddie realizing as they ran down your face, your soft sniffles practically echoing in the room. “I don’t want to lose you… But I can’t be friends anymore,” You sobbed, your shoulders shaking.

Eddie felt his heart shatter, his hands shaking as he tried to reach out to touch you but stopped himself, clenching his fist. He was desperate at this point. His words flowed out without any walls up, a rare occasion for the Munson boy.

“Please, I’ll do anything. Hell, I’ll even beg. Just let me know what I did wrong, or what happened… You’re the best person I’ve ever met and I’d be lost without you…I miss our sleepovers, our late night talks, our cuddle sessions, the way you talk me down from an anxiety attack…the way we are both so different yet so alike. You’re like this bright star full of warmth and I can’t stand the thought of losing you and never knowing how in the world I fucked up so badly, I-,” Eddie rushed out, sobs shaking his tall frame, his nose and eyes tinged red now, his eyes stinging from the salty tears.

You shook softly, crying as Eddie rambled, shaking your head. “I just… God it’s pathetic…”

Eddie came closer, grabbing your shoulder softly to try and look into your eyes despite his blurred vision. “P-please, Bug. Please…”

You looked up at the ceiling rather than Eddie, your tears flowing steadily. Eddie felt his heart break once again. Girls full of mystery and humbleness and sunshine through the clouds and soft cozy days shouldn’t sob. At least not because of their idiot fucked up and grumpy metalhead friends.

“I… I like you Eddie. I have for a while. You’re easy to be around and always know what to say and do. You’re so unapologetically…you. And I tried to push down the feelings and ignore them. It was working. For a while, at least. But then I saw you with that girl at the party and heard Steve mention some hot girl you liked and…I couldn’t handle the hurt. I’m sorry,” Your voice shook as you tried to keep your voice calm and without letting the sobs wrack your body.

Eddie’s heart somehow lifted up into his throat and sank into his shoes at the same time. How did he not see it before? He had been so blindsided by trying to ignore his own budding feelings for you that he hurt you.

You looked so tired and shaky, eyes still avoiding him. You tried to brush past him yet again. Eddie felt his heart leap as he rushed to grab your hand, stopping you.

“Bug…please…I like you too.”

You turned with a humorless laugh, eyes still glossy but you were holding back tears. Eddie felt a prick of confusion and hurt.

“Yeah right, Eds. Just, please don’t lie to me. It’s okay. I’ll get over it,” You sighed, voice sharp with hurt.

“I’m not lying,” Eddie said sternly, his eyes trying to peer into your own. You looked at him for the first time since entering through his door, your face guarded from emotion despite your eyes.

“Eddie…you’re you. And I’m me. You have a different person over every week, you have a reputation. I'm a boring college girl with a thankless snitchy job and no one tries to come on to me. Just…stop lying,” You said bitterly, your voice soft despite the sharp edges in your words.

Eddie felt his blood boil and his heart squeezed with sorrow. How could you not see everything you meant to him? How could you not see how funny and unique you were? How amazing and accomplished? “Look, maybe I’m Eddie ‘The Manwhore’ Munson, but I’ve stopped hooking up with people. For a while now. Since I’ve known you. I was talking to Chrissy at the party and joking around because she asked about my costume. But I wasn’t flirting. I hadn’t seen her since early September.”

You looked away, folding in on yourself, your shoulders deflated. Eddie couldn’t stand the pout on your lips, the furrow on your brow. He wanted to kiss them away.

“You’re all I’ve thought of and the only person I’ve ever needed so strongly in my life. You’re so amazing and you don’t even see it, Bug. Let me show you. Please,” Eddie pleaded, tilting your chin up to look at him, your eyes wide and full of fear and shock. He felt his heart trying to break free of his ribcage, his emotions coming over him in waves. His eyes flitted back and forth between your parted lips and red rimmed eyes, the invisible tug towards you strong. Your eyelids fluttered as you nodded, sighing out softly.

Eddie leaned down slowly, still holding your chin in his hand before softly kissing your lips, his mouth slightly chapped against your soft mouth. He was gentle and slow, holding your jaw as if he was scared you’d break. When you finally pulled away, you both stared at each other. Eddie saw the clear shock and flustered expression on your face, reveling in your sudden shyness.

“See,” He teased in a soft whisper. “I like you, dumbass.”

You smiled softly up at him, laughing a bit.

Eddie’s heart soared. You were worth the risk.

Taglist: @josephquinnsfreckles @corrodedcoffincumslut @kirisuteg0men @bebe07011 @amira0303 @vintagehellfire @lottie-90 @animechick555

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watchingovergvff · 1 year

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Bookshop Lovers- Jake Kiszka

Summary: The bookstore is your safe haven, but so is Jake. The both of you scour the store in hopes of finding the perfect romance book to help Jake with his non existent love life. But what if the only love he wants, is from you?

Genre: Friends to Lovers. Fluff.

Word Count: 4k

Warnings: Cursing. Alcohol. Pirate Jake:))

A/N: I love to hear feedback, so please don’t hesitate to do so. Thank you for all the love and support <3333

——————

It had been sprinkling all day long, gray littering the sky. The streets were practically empty due to the somber weather of the early afternoon.

Your rubber-rain boots squeaked with every step you took down the rain stained path. The bookstore across the street was dimly lit, in contrast to the stormy sky above. Jake had been complaining of being bored as of late. So, you offered to let him tag along on your journey to the bookstore. You were hoping to spend a few hours inside your favorite store, scouring the shelves for new stories to read. If Jake Kiszka asks to spend the afternoon with you, who are you to say no.

Now, if he knew you had intended on going alone to have some time for yourself, he would have never suggested he tag along in the first place. You were just too keen on him to say no.

Your relationship with Jake was sort of complicated. It was more than obvious that the both of you had feelings for one another, but neither of you have dared to admit your feelings. You had thought maybe this was one sided and you had convinced yourself that Jake would like you. As time has passed, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

If you weren’t at his house, he was at yours. You only ever answered the phone if his name popped up. When Jake was on tour across the country or the continent, he would send heartfelt letters to your doorstep. Both of your camera rolls filled to the brim of odd pictures of each other, whether it's you passed out in the grass or Jake stumbling his way into your house after a night out.

It was clear as daylight to everyone around the two of you. You both knew it, but you're too afraid to walk the line between friends and more.

Crossing the street, you can’t help the extra pep in your step when you see the little old lady sitting at the desk inside. Her name is Maeve, she opened this cozy little bookshop almost forty years ago. Having spent all your college years curled up between bookshelves, Maeve had grown to know the quiet young lady who spent hours browsing her shelves.

You walk through the door, a gentle smile gracing your face. It always smelt of clean linen and whatever Maeve had brought for lunch for the day. She had her head stuck in a book, clearly enthralled. You quietly clear your throat, not wanting to scare her, but wanting to make her aware of your presence. She quickly looks up, still startled, regardless of your small attempt at letting her know you're here.

A smile dawns her face immediately. She makes a move to walk around the desk to greet you, but you shake your head in protest, not wanting her to bother with getting up. Instead, you reach out your hands across the desk for her to hold.

She gently cups your hands, pulling you closer to her desk. “Y/n, sweetheart. You're awfully late coming in today. I figured you would have been here as soon as the shop opened this morning,” Maeve whispers, not wanting to bother any of her guests. You smile, shaking your head and squeezing her warm hand.

“No ma’am, not today. I’m actually meeting someone here, you may have already seen him. He has long brown hair, brown eyes... he kind of dresses like a pirate,” you say to her. Maeve chuckles at your description.

“Hmm. I don’t think I've seen any pirates walk in today,” she whispers in response. You squeeze her hands once more before stepping back. “Well, if you catch sight of him, can you direct him to the fantasy section,” you ask. “I sure can, honey. Come see me before you get ready to leave, please,” she asks in return. You nod before turning around, making your way to the back wall that held hundreds of fantasy books. Jake being late is no surprise to you, so you don’t sweat the fact that he’s not here yet. Finding the book you had started the last time you were here, you plopped yourself on the floor and began to read. _______

Jake quickly crossed the street, silently cursing himself for being late once again. He had offered to drive the two of you to the bookstore this afternoon, but he got carried away in the studio, to no one's surprise. You had reassured him multiple times that it was okay if he was late, you were just going to walk over instead. With the weather being like it has been today, he feels even more guilty that you walked here.

He manages to walk inside of the bookshop without too much rain dripping off of him. He thanks himself for deciding to wear his hair up today.

Jake spots the older woman behind the desk, who he presumes is Maeve, since you talk about her all the time. The only thing he doesn’t see is you. There is no way he got here before you. So, instead of standing in the doorway like a damp dumbass, he moves towards the desk in hopes of locating you.

The older lady, Maeve, stares at him, almost like she's analyzing him. She breaks out into a joyous smile.

“You must be the pirate. She’s in the fantasy section, back wall,” she quickly exclaims, almost immediately going back to her book. Jake stands there in confusion. Pirate? He takes a look down at his clothes, also taking note of his medallion that he wears everyday. Once he quickly realizes, he chuckles at your silly description of him.

Jake makes quick work of finding you, not wanting to be even later than he already is. He hears you before he sees you. Rounding the corner at the back wall, he spots you on the ground, flipping through some book. You're wearing the red rain boots Jake got you for Christmas, after he insisted you ruin too many pairs of shoes in the rain. He can’t help but feel a little prideful when he sees them on you. Jake chuckles at your clearly damp hair, knowing you well enough to know, you didn't bother carrying your umbrella with you.

Before you even have the chance to look up at him, Jake has thrown his body next to yours on the floor. _________

You heard him before you saw him. Instead of getting up and meeting him halfway, you decided to remain seated on the floor. You listened intently to his small conversation with Maeve, hoping she doesn’t say anything too embarrassing about you to him. His voice sounded raspy and exhausted. Jake had told you this past week has been incredibly busy, due to their upcoming album release. You felt bad for making him feel like he had to still come with you, but Jake would have insisted either way. Hearing his footsteps get closer, you look out of your peripheral to see his old, scuffed up boots coming straight towards you.

Before you can even muster up a hello, Jake has sat himself on the floor right next to you. You finally look up from your book, finding him smirking at you.

“What?”

“No hello, wow what have you done with Y/n?”

You elbow him in the side. Giving him an incredulous look, you await his answer.

“I told you those rain boots would come in handy, even if they do make you look like a dork,” he quietly says.

You gasp, dropping the book in your hands next to you. “I don’t look like a dork,” you reply, crossing your hands over your chest. Jake reaches over and pats your knee. “Yes you do, but at least you're a cute dork. Now, what is it I hear about me being a pirate,” he looks pointedly at you. You blush under his gaze, Jake never giving you enough time to recover from his words.

Reverting your eyes from his intense stare, you reach down to play with his hand. You thumb over the scars on his hands, most of them being from the years playing guitar. “You dress like a pirate, sort of. Your little vests, pretty medallions, and your occasional eyeliner. Seems like something a pirate would wear,” you say after a moment.

“I only wear eyeliner on stage.”

“Well, maybe this is your sign to start wearing it off stage too.”

Jake glares at you. “You’d like that wouldn’t you, weirdo.”

You scoff and shove at his shoulder.

“I’m trying to compliment you.”

“You're always too nice to me. Let me spoil you every once in a while.”

He pats your knee one last time, before slowly standing up. Turning to look down at you, he holds out his hands for you to grab.

Looking up at Jake, you place your hands in his, but remain on the floor. “Where are you taking me?” you ask.

“Well, I was under the impression you wanted to look at some new books, unless you’ve changed your mind.” “Oh, I want to browse, but it seems like you have other plans.”

He laughs at your dramatics. “I promise to be on my best behavior. Actually, I would like to see you in action. Maybe you’ll inspire me to read something other than the same three books I own.”

You smile, rolling your eyes at him. Finally, you let Jake help you up, dusting yourself off. He bends down, grabbing your book off the ground for you.

“Thank you”

He hums in response.

You begin your trek through each and every row of books, Jake following in tow. Picking up every book you deem interesting, you start to grow a stack in your arms. You talk Jake’s ear off about whichever book you pull off the shelf. He silently listens, taking the books from your arms.

Jake loves you like this, completely in your element. You're naturally a soft spoken person, letting others talk over or for you more often than not. When Jake had first met you, he thought you were too scared to voice your opinions. He quickly realized you're just a listener at heart and preferred to not have all the attention on you.

You overthink almost every interaction you have, not liking to drone on and on about boring topics that nobody cared about. Talking to Jake was always different compared to all your other friends. He would let you ramble for hours about anything and everything without saying a word. You always felt so comfortable with him, not caring about being boring.

By the time you rounded the final shelf in the shop, Jake’s arms were piled high with books. You obviously didn’t even realize you had been grabbing books in the first place, since you were too busy talking Jake’s ear off. He had found your rambling endearing and had decided to pick up every book you deemed interesting.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to hand you all those books. Here, give me a stack and I’ll go file them back up.”

Jake quickly stops you. “No, no. You didn’t hand them to me. I just wanted to look at them a bit more. You made them sound so enticing, so I figured it wouldn't hurt to do some book shopping of my own.”

“Jake Kiszka wants to read the books I recommended? Wow, I'm really honored. Thank you for this opportunity.” you sarcastically reply.

“What can I say, pretty girls like you can convince me to do anything.”

You scoff, rolling your eyes at his words. “Are you sure you want to start out with that many books? It normally takes you weeks just to get through one.”

“Fine, how about you pick your favorite one and I’ll read it.”

“Really?” you look at him in disbelief.

“Yes, really. I want to read whatever's got my girl’s head wrapped up in it that she can’t even respond to my calls.” he smirks at you, nudging your shoulder with his.

“That was only one time.” you flush at his nickname. Reaching over in the stack of books he carried, you selected your favorite out of the bunch. You begrudgingly gave it to him.

“What's the sour look for?”

“If you're going to read this book Jake, you can’t make fun of me because of what's in it.”

“Now why would I do that?”

“Because i-it's full of cheesy romance shit. But I promise it's a good book, you may just have to overlook that aspect.”

Jake gives you an odd stare. “What makes you think I don’t like romance Y/n?”

“I-I well, I just thought you would prefer something different, but if you don’t mind it then you should get it.” you stutter out.

“I might surprise you, love. I’m a man of many trades.” Giggling at his ridiculous response, you realize the two of you have been standing in the same walkway for way too long. Jake starts to ramble a bunch of nonsense, while putting the rest of the books back. You finally have enough of his loudness, so you reach down and grab his free hand, pulling him along with you.

He startles at your touch. It's not the first time the two of you have touched or held each other, but it's still uncharted territory when it comes to your relationship. Not wanting to let go of your hand, he follows along behind you obediently. You wordlessly tug him to the front of the store, heading to the desk Maeve sat behind. As you approach the front desk, Jake slinks his body close behind you, almost like he’s hiding behind you.

“Already done, sweetheart?” Maeve asks, smiling at you both.

“Yes ma’am, this one can’t be quiet anymore, so I figured it would be best to head out, before you kicked us out.” you smirked, stifling your laughter. Maeve slowly chuckles and shakes her head.

Without even having to look at him, you know Jake’s whole face has flushed red at your words. He swiftly pinches your side in revenge. You squirm at his touch, but allow his hands to remain at your side. Maeve thankfully makes the checkout process quick, sending you on your way with a pinch on the cheek.

Walking out the doorway, you realize you're still holding Jake’s hand. You attempt to pull away from him, but that just makes him pull you closer. The two of you walk hand-in-hand down the street, heading to his car.

The weather had cleared up to its best ability, but the sky remains gray. No words are shared throughout your journey to the car, but the silence is nowhere near awkward.

“Want me to take you home or do you want to come back to my house, and I'll cook you dinner?” he questions. “Do you have any red wine?”

“I may.”

“Can we watch whatever movie I want?”

“Of course.”

“Take me to your house.”

Jake laughs at your antics, pulling you closer into his side. The two of you continue the lengthy walk to his car, laughing and swaying as you go.

—----------

The car ride to Jake’s place had been full of singing and cackling at each other.

You spend half your time at Jake’s house anyway, so it doesn’t take long for you to make yourself at home. He had insisted you go change into something more comfortable, while he prepared dinner.

Padding into his bedroom, you can’t help but be nosey. You’ve spent plenty of time here, so you're not sure why you feel the need to sneak around. Jake liked having you sleep over whenever he was back home from tour, not liking being alone. So, you and Jake spent a lot of time in his bed, watching whatever movie you could get your hands on. Going through his dresser drawers, you find one of his worn-out shirts and loose fitting sweats. You change into his clothes fast, not wanting to make him wait any longer.

Scurrying into his kitchen, you catch a look at what he’s cooking. Jake is always handsome to you, but something about him in the kitchen makes your heart swell. He has pulled his hair up into a low-bun, small pieces of it cascading out of his updo.

“Dinner is almost ready, grab the bottle of wine from the fridge for me please?” he asks.

“Just one bottle? You should know better than that, Jakey. We go through wine like nobody's business.” you step towards the fridge, reaching in and getting the wine.

“Oh, I’ve got more in there, but I wanted to give you a chance to get a head start. I have a feeling I'm going to need something stronger than wine, to watch whatever you're going to pick.” he smiles at you.

Pouring the both of you a glass, you choose to ignore his words, but allow the smile to take over your face.

“Hey, I forgot to ask you this earlier in the shop, but are you super busy during the fall this year?” Jake asks, looking over his shoulder at you.

“Uh, depends on the date. Why, what’s up?”

“There's this family thing I have to go to. My cousin’s wedding and I can have a plus one. I figured I'd take you.” “Why not take one of those pretty girls from the bar we met the other night?” you mumble, letting jealousy get the best of you.

“Y/n, why the hell would I take some girl I talked to once, when I could bring my favorite girl with me.” he snaps back, giving you a pointed look.

You shrug under his gaze. “I would love to go, Jake. You sure I won’t embarrass you too much. You do still need to keep that cool, famous musician cred.”

“Honey, if that was the case, do you think I'd be cooking you dinner, in my house, while you're wearing my clothes.”

“I-I guess not.” you meekly reply, red from his exclamation.

“Okay, go sit down. Food is ready.”

You let him fix your food, not wanting to deal with him scolding you tonight. Jake had this beautiful dinner table that he also conveniently refused to sit at. So, you situate yourself on his comfy couch, already scrolling through movies to watch.

“You want another glass of wine?”

“Yeah sure.”

“Red or white?”

“I'm not sophisticated enough for white tonight, red will do please.”

Jake hums in response and pours your fresh glass. Not long later, he comes out of the kitchen with both your plate and wine. Thanking him quietly, you start to dig into your food, while he walks back into the kitchen for his food and drink.

Returning, not a minute later, he asks, “Did you pick a movie yet?”

“I did.”

“Pride and Prejudice?”

“Yep.”

He shakes his head, softly laughing at you. The two of you have seen Pride and Prejudice at least twenty times together, due to your love for it. Jake had protested the first few times y'all had watched it, but over time he grew to love it just as much as you.

So, the two of you huddle close together, eating your dinner, and watching the movie. Once the both of you had finished your food, you insisted on taking the dishes to the sink to clean for him. Jake being Jake, he refused to let you get off the couch, telling you that he would just do it in the morning. He knew your persistence, so he reached over and tugged you into his side.

Your heart beats sporadically against his chest. You and Jake were close, but not this close. This felt different than when the two of you would sit next to each other, this was far more intimate. Trying to not make a big deal about it, you tuck yourself further into his side, where he couldn't see the red blooming across your face.

That's how the night carried on, you tucked into Jake’s side, while he stroked your hair and watched the movie. You were growing more and more tired as the night progressed and sinked closer into Jake. He had noticed your fatigue earlier in the night, but chose to leave you alone and not disturbed you.

You don't know when you fell asleep, but when you awoke you shot up from your seat.

“Woah, woah. What's wrong? Bad dream?” Jake asked frantically.

Rubbing a hand across your face, you give a mumbled no in response. You realized the movie had been over for quite some time and Jake had just been letting you count sheep.

“How long have I been out?”

Jake chuckled at your crazed hair. “For about an hour. I wanted to move you to the bed, but every time I tried to move you, you groaned. So, I decided it was best to stay here for a while.”

“Ah, Jake, you should have woken me up. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to fall asleep on top of you.”

“It’s okay, I don’t mind. It was actually kinda nice.” You look at him in slight shock. “It’s nice to have my body crushing you in my sleep?”

“No, Y/n, that's not what I meant, honey.”

Continuing to stare at him in curiosity.

“What I meant was, I liked laying here with you. I don’t get to do this often because of work and tour, so having you here really makes me happy. Plus, this house feels so empty without you running around, so I'm just thankful you're here.”

You move closer to Jake, sliding across the couch to sit facing him. “I like being here too. I guess I don’t mind if you're here with me also,” you grin at him.

He smiles at you, refusing to look away.

“You know, now that you mention it. I kind of like you too.”

“Oh, really. You got a little crush on me, Jakey?”

He pulls you closer to him, your faces now inches apart. “I just might, honey. Maybe you should help me test it out, hmm? How does that sound?”

Regardless of how smooth Jake is attempting to be, you can feel the quiver of his breath against your face. You reach forward, cupping his face in your palm.

“I would like that very much.”

Without wasting a second, Jake’s lips have found home within yours. Months and months of waiting for this moment, all seemed to be worth it after all. After what Jake thought was too short of time, you pull away attempting to catch your breath.

Jake looks at you in awe and disbelief. “Why did we wait so long to do that?”

You huff a laugh at his words. “Because we're both idiots.”

The two of you burst out in laughter, still holding each other close.

“Please tell me you’ll stay the night. I don’t think I can go a second without you around anymore.”

You pull him by his collar, to meet your lips once more, before replying. “I’ll spend every night with you, if you’ll have me.”

Jake doesn’t even reply, he jumps up from his spot on the couch and scoops you up into his arms. You start to squeal at his antics, begging to be put down, but he insists on carrying you to bed.

That's how the two of you end the night, tightly wound around each other. Whispering sweet nothings into each other's ears, and silently giggling about different stories. Before you both fall asleep, you plead with Jake to read a bit out of his new book to you. To which, he gave up instantly, not wanting to deprive his love of anything.

The night finally comes to a close, your head against his chest, Jake’s new book strode across the bed, and the both of you snoring softly against one another.

The contagious smiles that began earlier in the evening, remaining as you both slept soundly.

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alaydabug2 · 2 months

Text

Okie dokie

Gonna get sappy/personal on here

I'm pretty sure the reason I'm so attached to kotlc is because it helped me through a tough time in my life

When I first read kotlc it was the summer before I went into seventh grade

Some important background information

I was in a trio group in late elementary school and in sixth grade we had a fall out

One person was being a jerk and narcissistic so me and the other friend broke off in our own little duo (my best friend kaylee)

Well end of sixth grade Kaylee tells me she's moving schools and going to public school (we were at a private school at the time)

The thing is I had other friends....kind of

Tbh I'm pretty sure I was the pity friend in that group

It's not like they were mean to me or anything, but I had zero in common with them

Not the same humor, same sports, same interests

Nothing

I was also the friend that got pushed to the end of the table so I usually didn't participate in the conversations much (and if you know me irl I love to talk)

But that summer I had just finished The Mysterious Benedict Society before school ended so while we were in the city for a doctor appointment we went to the bookstore so I could find something else to read

I was in the middle grade section and was just browsing when kotlc caught my eye

Idk what it was but i was just DRAWN in by it

Like it was a black hole or smth (sometimes I think it was God giving me what I needed at the time)

Read the back looked at the series

I told my mama this was the one I wanted

She asked if I wanted tk look some more before choosing

I said it was this one I wanted

So we went home and I read the first book

Fell in LOVE

Continued the series and just got immersed with the characters and the story

Then of course unlocked cliffhanger made me want to scream

But I went into 7th grade with that freshly in my mind and idk.... I think my brain just kind of... latched onto it

It was my comfort when I was the friend who had to walk behind the rest of the group on the track because their wasn't enough room

It's not like I could just easily get new friends

Like I said I was in a private school at the time

There were only 11 people in my GRADE in 7th

I had pretty slim pickings and that was the best I was gonna get

Then of course I moved schools and went into public school

But at thus point it's 8th grade

Everyone pretty much has their established groups and it's hard to REALLY get included

Like you're in the group....but not IN the group if that makes sense

I've always had a pretty tough time fitting in

You guys have seen how I act

I act like this irl too

And that's obviously going to be hard to find someone who acts like j do without being weirded out

My personality is just loud

So again I fall back on these books

Cause the characters aren't going to leave me

The characters aren't going tk stab me in the back

The characters aren't going to tear me down

They aren't going to exclude me

So I hold onto these characters and find comfort in them and relate to them and just hide jn the world of the Lost Cities cause THATS where I want to be

Yeah things aren't perfect there

But heck at least I can have friends there that care about me and have sparkly flying horses and dress in ball gowns just to go to the store and I won't feel as lonely as I do now

I can just escape the world here and pretend nothing else exists except the sparkly castles and go fight bad guys and feel like I'm doing something useful instead of just sitting at home with no social life cause I'm never invited to birthday parties and I don't feel close enough to these people to invite them anywhere else myself

Going into high school this year idk if it's going to be better or worse on that end but I just know that these charach are able to take care of me when no person irl can

Of got these characters I've got this amazing world and I've got this fandom

Sometimes that in itself makes me feel less lonely than I am

#vent #i think #kotlc #keeper of the lost cities #idk #thus series has saved me from crying myself to sleep a lot of times #it will always have my heart ❤️

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teasemates · 2 months

Note

How do you spend your free time? What hobbies?

And more importantly : any favorite movies or series?

Do you also watch some queer movies? Especially : did you guys watch royal blue? What are your thoughts? Would you recreate something from it 🫣🫣🫣😇😇😇

Would you say you are romantic or not?

Steve: I listen to audiobooks. All genres really, comes with my job at the bookstore. Sometimes I work out.

Billy: Yeah, I read too. Crime, mystery, fantasy, adventures. I have quite a wide range. I work out more or less at work, there's a gym. But I'm no gym rat, rather stay at home *glances at Steve with a tiny smile*

Steve *doesn't register the smile*: Um, I haven't seen that film. I've thought of reading the book, though. I watch all kinds of films, I try not to be limited by genres, so I'd definitely watch it. Lately I've been watching 'Presumed Innocent'. It's really interesting. That too is based on a book.

BIlly *chuckles*: You like to read the book first, then watch the show. And then–

Steve *interrupts Billy, laughing*: I bicker about everything that's better in the book. *frowns, thinking of an answer to the last question* I like to think I'm romantic. Doing small things the other likes at home, going out to the movies and for dinners, all that.

_ _ _

This is Billy's and Steve's Onlyfans RP account. Billy and Steve are "running" the account, the team behind it is Aggressiveviking & Suometar. Feel free to play into or out of the rp in any way you like, all interactions are welcome 💕💕💕

#asks #answered #harringrove #billy hargrove #steve harrington #rp account

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don-daygamerz · 1 year

Note

Ben Barnes x reader who's in her 20s and Ben likes her one day he couldn't control himself and says it like "I know I'm older but I still love you" idk something like this?!?

Hi sorry for the delay, I'm on break from taking requests but I'm not going to abandon your request. So here's a taste of the dynamic between Ben and (Name) as I figure out what to put together. Just some headcanons whilst I work on your story.

- (Name) being a Young millennial/Millennial Z.

- I can imagine reader being an Actress and a singer herself rising through the ranks due to her unique talent.

- Ben and (Name) first met through mutual friends.

- In fact, they met at the Troubadour where Ben was actually performing that night.

- (Name) was also invited to perform as well.

- My girl did Rock music. And did she have some serious pipes.

- Ben could not look away from her performance. He thought she looked so ethereal but at the same time so enticing under the blue and dim lighting of the stage.

- The way she strummed her guitar to impossible notes made her look like a Metal Goddess.

- When the show was over Ben had the chance to introduce himself through a friend of his who conveniently knew her as well.

- He felt shy to approach such an intimidating but captivating young woman.

- He found her to be very attractive and quite adorable actually. With her highlighted hair, smokey eyeshadow with glitter, dressed in a black sheer lace top with a dark bra underneath and a pair of dark jeans and laced doc marten boots.

- Immediately fast friends when they started exchanging dirty jokes (Ben can be a hound dog for sure).

- Ben enjoys to cook and share with his friends and after getting to know (Name), he's insistent that she joins him for dinner (with some friends, of course...it wasn't a date...not yet).

- When she first came to dinner she brought over some special dessert from her culture (Whatever ethnic background she is; I'd imagine it being Flan/Basbousa/Avocado ice cream/Ube cake...etc. could be any)

- Ben loved her dessert. Made it official that she introduces more ethnic desserts to his colonizer palate.

- Ben saw something unique in (Name): she was so funny, eccentric, talented, free spirited, and crazy but in a good way.

- It wasn't long before they'd coincidentally worked together staring in the Marvel series 'The Punisher'.

- I'd imagine (Name)'s character being the sister to Frank Castle and there is some sort of chemistry between her and Billy Russo.

- (Name) doesn't know this but Ben has actually watched her films and series.

- After meeting her for the first time, he grew curious about her work and explored her films and music, and immediately became enamored by her method of acting and her lyrics.

- Her first time to explore London, Ben is there as well and offers to show her around.

- When he took her to the Harry Potter store (Name) couldn't help but mention how he would've been perfect for a Harry Potter film:

"Ha ha not you too."

"Yes, me too. I've seen your old pictures and you would've been the perfect Sirius Black. Ugh what a wasted opportunity but too late, you're...oooold." She'd exaggeratingly say the last bit in a grim voice.

"I am not old you just happened to be born really late."

"That's what an old person would say."

- His contact name on her phone would be 'Shadow Daddy' (She just had to since his character, General Kirigan, was trending like crazy)

- It was a slow start between the two. Starting off as friends but then things between the two became serious.

-Serious how?

Having dinner together with just each other.

Visiting each other's designated trailers.

Going to London's famous bookstores and exploring great literature.

Ben and (Name) would even do a music sesh or duet some songs together.

She even got to meet his family.

He met her family as well.

- I can imagine (Name) being well versed in technology.

- Young Millennial Zs are just good to adapting to new technologies and constructing their own system units. So it's only natural that she's good at it as well.

- She's also a pro at video games. Like really good that she makes misogynistic, fascist pigs cry like little bitches.

- Like the chick has her own customized mug/tumbler that reads 'FASCIST TEARS'.

- A total badass in Call of Duty (Warzone), Overwatch, Dead by Daylight, Dying Light, Friday the 13th, League of Legends, etc. Don't mess with her.

- Ben one time heard her lay down some serious trash talk and come backs at a bunch of sexist, misogynistic 'men'. (He had spare keys to her place and found her preoccupied in her gaming room)

"Woah! Are you a gamer girl?! Send me some titty pics, bitch"

"You can't handle my melons, bitch. If you're looking for some titty action go back to sucking your mama's. Annoying ass brat."

"This game ain't for girrrllls! Go back to the kitchen and make me a fucking sandwich!"

*Soon after he said that (Name) would constantly headshot his lame ass character barely even touching her or landing a shot at her*

"What the fuck?!Nah Nah, fucking bitch is cheating!"

"Ha ha ha! You fucking suck man. I don't think this game is for you so how 'bout you go to the kitchen and make my fucking sandwich."

- Oh yeah, (Name) is a major savage when ripping into those assholes.

- She was surprised Ben found her like that and felt embarrassed. She was worried he would find it appalling with spoke... Ben was such a composed fella and her... she was basically the devil incarnate ready to erupt and drink the blood of her enemies.

- But her worries went away when Ben chuckled at the scene he had witnessed and asked if she was okay (in a nice way) She'd later explained about how she was being insulted online and it made Ben worried.

- She told him not to worry and that she handled well by kicking their ass.

- Ben's not a gamer (I think) but he was really impressed with how she put down those sexist assholes.

- He found it kind of hot.

"Well that was an...interesting reaction, ha ha ha!"

"Stop laughing! I feel so embarassed that you had to see me that way!"

"I have to admit I found it quite cute how you swore at the screen. Ha ha, you looked like an angry chihuahua. Ha ha ha!"

"Ha Ha very funny"

"Alright, I'm just teasing you. I just hope you won't get into trouble"

"Nonsense. Besides...they only try and get my account reported for 'cheating'. It's not my fault they deliberately suck at playing."

"You are really good... It almost feels unfair."

"You say that because you've never beaten me at Mario Kart to this day."

"I've been practicing whilst I was away filming. So I'd like to think now I'm close to beating you."

"Ooh ho ho. Big talk eh. I'd like to see you try. Prepare to lose...again!"

- The two also enjoyed teasing one another that it gave everyone the impression that they were couple. Heck even their parents thought there was something more between the two.

- Ben laughed it off when his parents told him and he denied saying that he was too old for her. But they thought differently.

- (Name)'s mom was rooting for them (aww bless her) and her dad well...He didn't mind Ben but that was his sweet baby girl. To him, Ben was corrupting his sweet, innocent, little 'angel' baby (Ahahaha he can't see it clearly that his daughter is basically the devil who thrives on Cyberbullying fascist gamers... Yeaahh, an 'angel' for sure but there's nothing wrong with putting down toxic gamers. The girl is basically considered a saint in the gamer girl community)

- Sure there was a bit of a large age gap between the two but his parents had no qualms against whom he dated as long they treated him well. And they believed (Name) was the right fit for him.

- Ben would also invite her to one of his recording sessions and let her listen to him sing and play his piano.

- She would also invite to him to her recording studio to witness her play and come up with new songs.

- She'd be in awe of his talent and it would not go unnoticed by Ben which just bolstered his ego and made him flustered at the same time.

"Enjoy the show?"

"You were amazing! I mean... You all were amazing." She included the rest of the musicians who played by his side.

"Thanks, I'm happy to hear that."

"I heard that you're putting a lot of focus into your music since you didn't have the time to do so?"

"Yeah. I've put it off for a while since I wasn't so sure at the time but..."

"You're doing great and I'm not just saying that as a friend. It may seem late but you've put in a lot of work and creativity into it. I'd say all these years you just had some pent up creativity storming through that head of yours."

"Thanks that means a lot. I appreciate it."

"Happy to help. Ooh now that you're a rising musician does that mean I can be one of your groupies?!"

"Ha ha ha you can be so ridiculous!"

"That's what you love about me."

"You have no idea."

- Ben doesn't understand it yet but he always looked forward to (Name)'s words of encouragement and unwavering support as he trekked through the world of music.

- Despite the age difference the two shared their worlds and experience with one another and it brought them closer and closer.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

#ben barnes #ben barnes x reader #ben barnes x you #ben barnes imagine #ben barnes imagines #ben barnes fanfiction #ben barnes x female reader #ben barnes x y/n #ben barnes fluff #older!ben barnes x young!reader #request #special requests #fanfiction #fluff imagine #ben barnes headcanon #ben barnes headcanons #headcanon #headcanons #ben barnes fic

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th3-c0rps3-r0gu3 · 11 months

Text

shadows

chapter 4.

Pairings: Natasha X Wanda, Natasha X umbrakinetic teen fem!reader, Wanda X umbrakinetic teen fem!reader, Avengers X umbrakinetic teen fem!reader.

Warnings: swearing,

3rd person.

"hey has detka have you seen y/n it's been four hours. She's not in her room."

Natasha says to her girlfriend concerned. It's way past the time y/n should be in bed but Natasha can't find the girl to tell her that.

"I took her to the library."

Wanda responds. She seems less concerned but she hadn't seen y/n exit the library so she assumed she was still there.

"I'll go check. Thanks mylashk."

Natasha says heading for the library.

Natasha enters the library and starts to look around. Someone is definitely here as there are books missing from shelves everywhere. Whoever y/n is no where to be seen. After about thirty more minutes Natasha is about to give up. That is till she sees a mountain of books surrounding a beanbag. A bean bag that held y/n.

Y/n pov.

I don't know how long I've been in here but in all honesty I don't care either. I've been able to read so much! And no one has tried to stop me or yell at me like other bookstore customers. Then a voice breaks me from thought.

"there you are y/n I was getting worried."

It's natasha. She standing Infront of me but she doesn't look angry.

"oh.. sorry."

I am still way to quiet. I was better with Wanda. Not that I should say that. I'd offend Natasha and that would lead to.. I don't think about it.

•red head seems worried.•

•why worried? Nobody worries for us.•

•red head relieved now though.•

•did we relieve her?•

•yes.•

I drown out the shadows again. Natasha just looks at me concerned. I really need to get used to that look being aimed at me. It's.. unsettling.

"you need to go to bed now. It's late. You need sleep y'know."

Natasha says. She seems calm.

"ah.. ok. Sorry."

I say quieter. I really need to get better. Speaking to solely shadows is getting to me. Natasha nods at me.

"if it's ok but have you read all these books?"

Natasha asks. That surprised me.

"only half. The right side is ones I've read and the left I haven't."

I'm louder this time. Still quiet but louder. Good. Natasha looks at the piles. Granted the right side has more books than the left but y'know it's not that bad. Natasha then nods again.

"ah ok. Goodnight y/n."

Natasha then leaves. I get up and walk down to my room. It's quiet. Thank god. I enter my room and sit on the floor again. I'm not ready for a bed yet. Not after the years of sleeping on concrete.

It's morning. And it's bright out. I really need to darken this room.

•bright!•

•too bright.•

•tone it down!•

I try and block the shadows again but their too loud and I cant.

•make it dark again!•

•white bright too!•

Right. I need black paint. I'll find a way to get that. But I should visit the book store and see Sandra.

I walk into the main area and see Wanda and Natasha talking to a blonde woman who I assume is carol. All three turn to me.

"morning y/n."

Wanda says smiling. I'll need to get used to that. Sandra is usually the only one who smiles at me.

"morning.."

I say quietly. Damn I thought I made progress at being louder.

Wanda starts to introduce me to the blonde woman. I half don't listen. Anything I miss the shadows can tell me. Eventually Wanda stops rambling and America smiles at me. Still unsettled by the smiles.

"hey uhm.. can I go back to the bookstore. I help out there and stuff.."

I murmur nearly silent. I really really need to be louder.

•ohh visit Sandra?•

•who's Sandra?•

•friend!•

Natasha's voice breaks through the shadows muttering.

"course you can kiddo. We can walk down now if you want."

I simply nod.

The walk was quick and quiet. Thank the gods. I enter the bookstore and greet Sandra while Natasha walks away.

"hey kiddo how is living with literal superheroes?"

Sandra asks grinning while she pulls out boxes of books that need shelving.

"it's ok. Better than I expected. But I need to darken my room.. it's too bright."

I say. Here at least I speak normally.

•room is definitely too bright.•

•see Sandra again!•

•ooh yes Sandra!•

•hello Sandra!•

I let the shadows rumble their greetings as Sandra explains where the books need to go. I already know where they need to go. I've done this so many times now.

3rd person pov (with Nat and Wanda)

Natasha returned to the compound and sighed as she walk through the door to her and Wanda's level.

"well? How was the walk?"

Wanda asks from the kitchen. Natasha comes up behind her hugging her.

"quiet. She really doesn't like to talk."

Natasha responded.

"what are you cooking? It smells heavenly detka?"

"it my paprikash Nat you should know this by now."

Wanda responds giggling. Natasha smiles.

"ahh silly me."

°three hours later°

Natasha and Wanda have been watching sitcoms for the past hour now but Natasha is starting to worry about y/n.

"detka is y/n coming back alone or am I going to pick her up?"

Natasha asks the red head snuggled beside her.

"I dunno. If your worried we can walk down to find her."

Wanda sits up and turns off the tv.

"and now that you mention it I am starting to worry."

Y/n pov.

I finished shelving ages ago and now I'm reading. After about a million questions from Sandra and the shadows screaming in my ear holes I finally have some peace. And a bonus is the Sandra supplied me with black paint. So there's the brightness issue half fixed. Next is to get light blocking blinds. If I can gather the courage to ask for them that is. But that's an issue for future me to deal with.

"hey kiddo. You will still visit me despite the fact you live with heroes now right?"

Sandra's question confuses me. Why would I stop coming here?

"of course I'll keep coming. Why would I stop?"

Sandra seems a little guilty looking now.

"well you live with heroes. You hardly need a bookstore owner backing you up now. I'm half surprised you came in today."

The older woman explains. I frown.

"I live with heroes but honestly they scare the hell out of me. Besides. Your my friend. I trust you."

I easily explain. At least with Sandra I can speak normally. Then two red heads walk in. Two easily recognisable red heads. Why in Satan's name is Wanda and Natasha here?

•why they here?•

•shhh that's rude!•

•rude but good question.•

"shut up...."

I mumble to the shadows who finally listen to me and quiet. Wanda sees me and smiles. God I need to get used to that. Or she could stop doing it. Though I doubt she will.

"hey y/n. We were just wondering when you were going to be back?"

Wanda asks me. Natasha is talking to Sandra. Wanda then consequently notices the black paint.

"what's with the paint?"

The Slovakian asks.

"oh uhh.. my room is a bit bright and um.. I decided to darken it by painting it black... if that's not ok I won't and I'll just give this back to sandra..."

I murmur. God I'm still too quiet. I'll work on it.

"oh sorry. I never stopped to think if the rooms as bright. I can help paint if you want. It'll be fun!"

Wanda responds.

"and if it's still too bright we can get light cancelling blinds so then you won't need to deal with sunlight too much. You didn't seem the type for bright spaces anyway."

I sit there surprised by Wanda's response. I was expecting a scolding but this is better.. I think. Then Natasha comes over.

"alright you two let's go. Before it's dark out."

The Russian grabs Wanda's hand gently and waits for me to get my stuff before we leave.

"bye Sandra! I'll come back and I won't forget you! Promise!"

I call out to sandra.

"I'll hold you to that kiddo!"

She responds. I then follow Natasha and Wanda out and back to the compound.

Me and Wanda have just finished painting my room black while Natasha put up the sun block blinds.

"there we go. Now your room isn't so bright."

Wanda says proudly looking over our paint job.

•ooh finally not bright.•

•better much much better•

•no sun! Black everywhere!•

•we in heaven?•

I struggle to drown the shadows out. The joy I feel combined with them is too much. Oh well their rambles can go on I suppose. Natasha moves next to us and kisses wanda. I cringe internally. Is this how couples are meant to act?

"brilliant job detka. The paint looks brilliant."

Nat says and Wanda smiles.

"I'm glad the curtains didn't fall on you."

Wanda responds. Is that how your supposed to respond to that? Natasha doesn't seem unhappy...

"yes well how about we go shopping tomato fill the room up."

Natasha proposes. I perk up. Does that mean book shopping? Or drawing shopping? Will I get a new sketchpad?

"that's sounds like a brilliant idea. Y/n how do you feel?"

Wanda turns to me.

"oh.. uh yeah sounds good."

Still to goddamn quiet.

A/n: I honestly thought I posted this ages ago. Then I go to Wright chapter five and what's in my drafts? This. Oops. Sorry for those who actually like this series for the late post.

#natasha romanoff #natasha romanoff x reader #natasha x you #black widow #natasha x y/n #natasha romanoff x fem!reader #black widow x reader #wanda maximoff #wandanat x daughter!reader #wanda maximoff x fem!reader #wandanat x reader #natasha x daughter!reader #natasha x wanda #natasha x teen reader #wanda x reader #Wanda X teen reader #avengers x reader #avengers x teen!reader #Wanda X daughter!reader

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magic-mao · 4 months

Text

Male Protagonist

Day 7🍒 Isara Mao

Author's Note: I’m so behind on es nsfw month but better late than never🔥🔥 I will definitely be on time for Mao day to deliver to the MaoPs🤌

Summary: You catch the Student Council President slacking off on his work by reading a manga, but the manga isn't just any manga—it's a hentai manga!

Word Count: 3.2k+🤯

⚀ ⚁ ⚂ ⚃ ⚄ ⚅

"Yo President~♪ you in here?"

You asked, entering the student council room without knocking and unannounced. You knew that since it was well after school hours, only the Student Council's workaholic President, Isara Mao, would be the only one inside, so there wouldn't be a need for you to knock. When you stepped inside, you shut the door and caught him sitting at his desk reading a manga whereas a stack of paper was pushed to the corner of his desk.

A grin appeared on your face as Yumenosaki Academy's Student Council President was slacking off. He was reading his manga with such focus that he didn't realize you were approaching the desk until your shadow passed over him and took the manga from his grasp. "Oooh the President is slacking off~ ♪" You teased.

"Aah! P-Producer?!" As soon as the manga was taken from his hands, his eyes opened. Trying to grab the manga that you had stolen from him, he leaped out of his seat. There was a blush spreading across his startled face, and it became clear that he was desperate to get his manga back.

"Man, what is the President reading that is causing him to slack off?" You inquired and began flipping the pages. In all honesty, you weren't interested in what manga he was reading, presuming it to be a copy of the most recent edition of his favorite manga series; he had mentioned that the next volume would soon be available in bookstores. You wanted to play around with him because, even though you had previously stolen his manga, you had never seen him act so desperate to get it back—the mangas he read were just boring shounen with an overpowered main character.

"W-Wait! Don't—!" He cried out and leaned more of his body over his desk to grab the manga, but you ignored his repeated warnings and moved away from the desk, continuing to turn the pages.

By chance, you landed on a page that showed a male and female character having sex. Smaller panels showed the female character sucking the male character's dick, hair getting pulled, and coming all over her face that formed an ahegao expression. It was then that you realized he wasn't reading the latest manga from his favorite series, but rather some hentai manga. Your eyes glazed over as you spotted Mao's everlasting blush, his face turning a deep red that nearly matched the hue of his maroon hair. When you turned back to the panels and turned to a different page at random, you saw that the female character was riding the male character and pushing his face into her considerably large breasts.

Perhaps you should have knocked on the door instead of storming into the student council room to avoid having to go to bed, knowing that Yumenosaki Academy's Student Council President likes reading this kind of material, but what fun would that be? You have discovered that Mao is just like any other teenage boy who keeps a stash of erotic manga under his bed. "Isara-kun, wow. I had no idea you were into this sort of thing. How perverted~" You kept turning the pages, watching as the male character became submissive at the hands of the female character.

Huh, this reminds you of someone...

Mao genuinely wished that the floor would split open and swallow him. Not only was he tucked away in the student council room after school, reading hentai, but you caught him in the middle of it.

"Geeze Isara-kun, ease up ~♪ This is vanilla compared to the freaky stuff I've read." You turned the manga over to look at the cover and assumed him. The female character was drawn on the cover in a suggestive pose that highlighted her already obvious big tits. ... what? Did you just admit to him that you absorb less tame hentai content than the one he's reading?

He blinked at the realization but said nothing more, not knowing how to respond or what to say next as his heart wouldn't stop pounding in his chest. "Haah~" With a sigh, you set the manga down on the desk and walked over to the frozen Mao. You spun his chair around so that he faced you and his back was to the door. You swung your leg over to straddle his lap and grabbed him by his green tie to pull his face close to yours. Leaning in close to whisper, you leaned into his ear and asked "Do you always read porn in here, knowing you won't get caught, you pervert?" Mao shudders when you lick the shell of his ear, squeezing his eyes shut.

"N-No!" He choked out. Your hands move to undo the buttons on his white shirt, and Mao begins to react. "H-Hey!" He gasped, clutching your wrists to prevent you from unbuttoning his shirt past his collarbone. "W-What are you doing?" He sat up straight by placing his feet firmly on the ground.

"You should undress because you're very red and you're sweating," you explained in a casual tone, pulling your head away from his ear to face him directly. You acted like you hadn't been trying to get in his pants.

"But I'm not wearing anything under!" He cried out. You stared at him, unamused.

"Okay, and?" Both of your hands cupped his cheeks, pulling him into an unplanned kiss as you did so. "Mmph~!" You withdrew from kissing him, taking away his breath and leaving him dumbstruck. Once more, you dipped in, parting your lips and nudging him with your tongue to get him to part them. You give him a slight tilt of your head to deepen the kiss and lock lips once he parts them. They were smooth and warm against yours, and you could feel them quivering as he tried to keep up.

"Mmm-mmph~" When you bit his lower lip, he let out a needy moan. His arms wrapped around your waist to move your body closer. As you withdrew, a strand of saliva connected to your lips this time. Leaning to lick his lips, the string broke.

You panted, "Mao." He swallows hard when he hears the sound of his name coming from your panting. "Does that hentai have a sequel where the female character is fucking the male character in the student council room?" You seductively licked your lips.

"Huh? N-No?" He gulped, "That isn't mine though..." He said in a shaky tone.

"Oh, that's unfortunate~♪" You return for a third kiss, giving him no time to process what you just said. You explored his mouth with your tongue as it rolled out of yours. He squeezed his eyes shut, gripped your hips, and melted at the sensation of your tongue moving in his mouth. Without warning, you go to ground your hips against his, and he moans in your mouth as his nails dig into your hips; if you hadn't been wearing your white shirt, there would have been visible crescent marks.

It didn't require too much grinding for you to know he was turned on and hard as you felt his hard-on against you. He wasn't the only one in this situation who was turned on as you rubbed your intimate areas together, you felt yourself getting wetter with every cute and strangled noise and moan he let out into your mouth.

"F-Fuck~!" He whimpered, breathless, and threw his head back when you took your lips off of him after French kissing him. You hurried to take off his shirt as you turned your focus back to unbuttoning it. After the buttons were undone, his pale and unblemished skin was nearly exposed. You assisted him in removing the shirt, which was shrugged off his shoulders and hanging over his forearms.

You kissed every inch of his chest, reaching up to his collarbones, where your tongue sucked lightly. You kept gridding him. "Aa-aah, m-more!" You did as he asked and applied more pressure to his collarbone, causing the skin to turn red around your wet lips. Then you bit down on his neck, sucking it and leaving him with a hickey to take care of, reminding him of the time you made him feel overwhelmed with pleasure.

After leaving him a lingering kiss on his neck, you slide off his lap and take pride in your work. Isara Mao's was left a needy mess, desiring more from you. He was blushing red and gasping for air, and his hair was all over the place. The yellow clip that was pinning his bangs back had some strange escape, either sticking up or sticking against his sweating forehead. His clothes were disheveled also as his uniform shirt was only halfway on and his pants had an evident bulge. you helped him get out of the chair and rolled it away from the desk that you had pressed his back against to start another passionate kiss. His hardon was nudged by a knee that was slid between his legs. You then swiftly unbuckled his belt and slid his pants to expose his black boxers. He murmured your name out as he glanced down. You touched his cock and the slit leaked out pre-cum, dampening against his boxes, as you rubbed your finger over a wet spot in the middle of his boxes. "Aww~♪ any longer, you would've come!" A coy smile appeared on your face as you teased.

"I-I'm glad I didn't." With a whimper, he ran a trembling arm through your hair. He didn't know what he would do if he came solely from some grinding. This was humiliating enough ~! Then you dipped your fingers into his boxer's waistband and pulled it down to expose his cock. The student council's president was startled when you put your hand around it. You used your thumb and index finger to stroke his cock. Rubbing the cockhead and swiping with your thumb and index finger at the slit where the pre-cum had leaked out.

"S-Shit--aaaahh." He cried out, with his head lolling back and his hand tightly gripping the edge of the desk until his knuckles turned white. After that, you sink onto your knees and give his cock an experimental lick. "Nngh~!" His heart raced and he bit his lip in an attempt to stop himself from making more embarrassing noises, but it was ineffective because he let out a sinful moan that happens when you suck cock.

As you sucked him off, your hands gripping his thighs for support as you sucked him off. Mao grabbed your face with unsteady hands and pushed you to take him in deeper. Your moans of getting face-fucked applied pressed on his cock and caused him to near his release. He guided your head and you played with his thighs. Mao's cock began to twitch and he whined.

"Oh f-fuck! I'm close~!" You take in more from him by sucking more deeply and hollowing out your cheeks. As he approached his climax, it wouldn't take long for him to release a choked sob and tug your hair. Before he came, he called your name and attempted to remove you from his cock, but you swatted his hands away and allowed him to come in your mouth. He came with a mewl and filled your mouth with his release after you have him one last suck.

He blurted, stuck in the hazy state from the ecstasy of his orgasm, "Ah! You don't have to swallow it. You can spit it out." But you didn't. You licked your lips at any excess come as you swallowed his release. You cupped his cheeks and drew him into a kiss, parting your lips, and let him taste himself as your tongue brushed against his mouth. He trembled against you and moaned softly. After you kissed him and tasted his own come, he became hard again.

"You're still hard?" " You withdrew from his lips as his cock rubbed at your thigh, staring into his green eyes.

"Yes..." He sheepishly replied with an arm rubbing his neck. Your hands ran through his hair in search of the yellow clip to undo and let his long bangs fall over his face, nearly hiding his eyes once you unpinned his hair.

"Anyway, time to let you live out your hentai protagonist fantasy~♡"You led him back to the chair, where you forced him to sit while you undid your uniform. You straddled his lap once more after getting undressed, but this time you lined his cock to the entrance of your pussy.

He sat up straight, his cock brushing against your seductively wet entrance as he remembered something. "W-Wait! Open the bottom draw." Mao asked, and you complied. You looked at him curiously when you pulled the draw open and noticed a tiny bottle of clear lubricant.

"Wow, the Student Council President gets freaky in here~," You remarked in a flirty tone, winking at him. `

He sputtered, "What? No! That's been in there since my first year!" He clarified so as not to lead you to believe that he uses the student council room for sexual endeavors, either by himself or with others.

"Oh, so either Sakuma-senpai or Tenshouin-senpai keeps a bottle of lube in the bottom drawer of the desk? I wonder who..." It hardly took long for you to guess who put the lube in the draw.

"Sakuma-senpai." You and Mao said at the same time. Sakuma Rei literally went through a bad boy phase a few years ago, which is more believable than Tenchoushin Eichi putting the lube in the draw. It is impossible to see Tenshouin receiving any action. Perhaps Wataru, but it doesn't seem like he would fuck Tenshouin in the student council room.

You took the bottle of lube he handed you, squirted some on your fingers, and inserted two fingers into your pussy to stretch yourself. "Aaagh~!" You whimpered out, and Mao let out a shaky breath when he saw the hot sight of you fingering your pussy. When you felt your finger brush against a sensitive spot, you threw your head back and arched you back, aiming to hit that spot one more time until you pulled your fingers out of your wet heat. With the excess lube mixed with the slick wetness from your pussy, you lathered his cock with it. His cock twitches in your grasp as you guided him into your pussy.

"I-I wonder who was the one that fucked S-Sakuma-senpai? Aaah~" You inhaled before sinking down on his cock, groaning at the stretch. Mao whimpers when he feels you clench around him and wraps his arms around your hips.

"Please don't talk about our senpais." He cups a hand around your cheek to look directly into your eyes. "J-Just focus on me~♡" He pressed a kiss against your lips and you threw your arms around his neck, lifting your hips and slamming back down his cock, taking him in deeper.

"Nngh~! Oh god!" You whimpered when you felt him bottom out. "W-Who knew the Student Council President could say that while balls deep inside me~♪" Even while having sex, you wouldn't stop teasing him, and that made him let out a whine.

"Don't." You stopped as he gasped out. You stopped your teasing because you weren't sure if you had gone too far. Despite his people-pleaser tendencies, his willingness to accept people throwing their work at him, and not showing his true feelings, you know he can be pushed to the brink, and you were afraid you might push him too far.

As you and he both panted, he looked into your eyes with a desperate expression on his face. He swallowed his saliva before pleading out, "Don't call me Student Council President o-or Isara, please call me by my name, Mao." He stammered, and then he pushed you against his cock, stretching your pussy with every thrust.

"Fuck it! M-Mao~♡" You cried aloud, rocking your hips as you felt Mao's cock brushing every part of you until he reached the spot that made you melt and feel the stars from when you were earlier picking at yourself. "Aaaah-!" As you continued to move up and down, chasing to hit that bundle of nerves, your hands moved down to rest on his shoulders.

"S-Shit, M-Mao, I'm close~!" When he struck that spot, you clenched around him and meowed out.

"Me too-!" You clenched around his cock and he cried out your name. "I-I love you!" you cried as you two chased your orgasms.

Something in Mao made him pull you into a kiss and cry out, "I love you too!" while opening his mouth to let his tongue slide across your lips and brush against your tongue. You both feel the pleasure rising as you moan into each other's mouths and then, with a final hit against your G-spot, you both come. You came all over his cock, and his cock spurted his release deep into your pussy.

Even after you had your orgasm, you kept grinding your hips into his, enjoying the slippery feeling of your slick come on his cock as it made bouncing up and down easier. His come dribbled out of your pussy and onto his lap and the chair. When you felt too stimulated, you finally pulled off and sat in his lap, resting your head on his shoulder. Other than you and Mao panting to catch your breath after the dizzy orgasm, the Student Council room was quiet.

"D-Did you mean that when you said you love me?" Mao exhaled and ran a hand over his wet bangs, unsure whether if your confession was genuine.

You smiled at him, planted a chaste kiss on his lips, and stroked his flushed cheeks."Of course, I love my Mao~♡" He was starstruck.

You basked into each other's embraces for a while and then went to redress yourself before you had sex. As he was buttoning his shirt up, you sat on the edge of the desk, reading the discarded manga that led to you having this sexual endeavor with him. Mao went over and stepped in between your legs. "Hey Mao, I noticed something interesting in this porno."

After spending some time basking in each other's embraces, you got dressed before you even engaged in having sex. You read the abandoned manga that was the root cause for you to engage in this sexual endeavor with him while he was buttoning up his shirt. Mao approached you and stepped in between your legs. "Hey Mao, I noticed something interesting in this porno."

"Every male character from every hentai I've read, including this." You showed your lover the page that caught your attention by turning the book around. "The male character has his bangs completely covering his eyes!" The main character was drawn on the page with his bangs indeed covering his eyes.

"Yeah, so?" Yes, he did notice that shared characteristic, but he had no idea where you were going with it.

With your index finger, you gestured for him to come closer, "Well~" You unclipped the yellow hair clip he put back in moments ago to make his bangs fall in front of his eyes. "If you take that clip out from pinning your bangs back, maybe your hair will be long enough to cover your eyes and then you'll be able to live out a hentai protagonist's fantasy more often!" Mao blushed a deep red color again when you shared that piece of information.

He cried out your name in embarrassment. "P-Producer?!"

#esxreadernsfwmonth2024 #mao isara smut #isara mao smut #enstars smut #ensemble stars smut #ensemble stars x reader smut #mao smut

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thatfreshi · 1 year

Text

"You Better Tell Me" (Uni AU P. 5)

You get invited to the rooftop for a smoke sesh with Shadowheart and Gale

tw - weed (reader does not partake), athletic injuries, hints at grooming

@justporo

Soon after, the group fizzles out, starting with Shadowheart saying she doesn't want to be late to church. You weren't really expecting the whole religious thing with her, but hey, if it floats her boat. Gale says he has to meet with Mystra about his thesis project, and Lae'zel heads back to the room, leaving you free to do whatever you want.

So, you spend the day walking around looking for your classes, getting used to campus, finding the cozy places to study. The library is extravagant, filled with books from the past century, with a full online database. You even stop by the pool, which is full of swim team athletes preparing for the upcoming season.

After walking around all day, you come back to the dorm room, exhausted. Shadowheart however, is leaving.

"Oh, Tav! You should come with me! Gale and I are having our weekly smoke sesh. You don't have to smoke, but we like to chill out and talk about all the shit we've heard recently."

Without even really thinking about it, you put down your bags from the bookstore and follow her out the door.

"I thought we couldn't smoke on campus?"

She smirks, leading you to the staircase.

"Well, that's the nice part of being best friends with one of the RAs, their master keys work on the roof door."

As if on cue, Gale shows up behind the two of you.

"Good evening."

Fumbling with his key ring, he opens the door for the two of you to get onto the roof. It's a little chilly this high up. The lights of the city are apparent over the edge of the roof.

"You got Tav to join us?"

"I guess so. We're just cool Gale, we have to accept it."

The two laugh as Shadowheart takes a small plastic baggie out of her tote bag. Like clockwork, the two get to work rolling.

"You want one?"

You shake your head at him.

"No thanks. Honestly just hear to listen to all the gossip."

"See, I knew I liked you."

Shadowheart smiles, taking out her lighter.

"So, what do you want to know?"

You're all sitting on top of one of those electrical boxes, one that clearly isn't in use anymore. You hesitate, knowing you probably will get weird looks for your question.

"Lae'zel... what happened to her leg?"

Gale sighs, and Shadow goes to pull up a video somewhere in her camera roll. The two don't speak, instead showing you a video of a track meet from the previous year. You watch as Lae steps the wrong way, taking a nasty fall, the video picks up the scream she lets out on the track. Gale is the first to speak up.

"She fucked up her entire leg. Started as a sprained ankle, but she tried to keep going. Ended up tearing up her hamstring, and eventually tore the connection between her leg and her foot. Couldn't walk for months."

"Lae'zel doesn't like to talk about it though. She was supposed to be in the Olympics next year, but no amount of physical therapy has worked. As much as she pisses me off, I feel bad talking about it sometimes. Her whole family is full of famous athletes, and now she can't even play her sport anymore."

You weren't expecting the conversation to get so sad so fast, but it is tragic. The idea that you spend your whole life working towards something, and you can lose it all so fast.

"That fucking sucks."

Almost immediately changing the mood, Shadowheart lets out a gasp.

"Wait. Okay before I show you all this: Gale, Tav and Astarion fucked."

His eyes immediately fill with shock.

"I'm sorry. You, and that man, had sex? When?!"

"Ugh, last night. It was stupid and complicated, and then this morning I screamed at him."

"Yeah, and then he left crying. I don't think I've ever seen him cry."

The guilt bubbles back up again, unsure if you did the right thing. Before you can ask the group why they all hate him so much, Shadowheart shows you a paparazzi picture.

"Apparently this was taken earlier today. Looks like somebody's mad at Daddy, boohoo."

You almost ignore her mocking tone. It's Astarion and Szarr in the photos, having what looks like an intense argument at an outdoor shoot.

"You think he'd figure out how to stop complaining by now."

Gale takes another puff, coughing a little.

"Why are you guys so mean to him?"

Shadow almost doesn't know how to answer you.

"I mean, you've met him. He's just some rich kid piece of shit Tav."

"You should've seen him, at the party."

Gale perks up.

"What do you mean?"

"I don't know, the whole thing just makes me feel sick. Like something isn't right, but I don't know what. I met one of the other models, Aurelia, and she was being super cryptic and scary."

The two are fully staring at you now.

"And I met Szarr. He's a full-on creep, gave me this weird kiss on the hand. It was gross, but Astarion? He was like tense. I don't know, it just felt wrong."

"Yeah, but Astarion's been modeling for like six years now. I'm sure he knows the industry well enough to avoid people if they're truly bad people."

It's clear Shadow has made up her mind, but you're still not so sure. Before you can say anything else, she's trying to look at Gale's phone.

"Who are you blushing at?! Is there some lover I don't know about?"

He snatches his phone from her.

"Okay, I'll tell you if you stop trying to take my shit. I may or may not be seeing someone, as of today. BUT, she wants to keep it private for now, so no you can know!"

"Come on, please! I'm your best friend."

"As soon as I can, I'll tell you. But for now, please respect her privacy."

Shadow dramatically rolls her eyes, taking another hit.

"Fine, but as soon as I can know, you better tell me!"

The three of you talk about some other random stuff for the next hour or so. Within that hour, the photos of Astarion and Szarr are wiped from the internet, much to Shadowheart's disappointment. You tune out for a lot of the conversation, thinking about just how much shit you've already gotten yourself into. Although, you'll most definitely be back for next week's smoke sesh. Besides, you need all the help you can get with just how wild this place seems to be.

#baldur's gate 3 #university au #angst #astarion #lae'zel #shadowheart #gale of waterdeep #freshiau

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mints-leaf · 1 year

Text

A Bookstore Meet Cute Pt. 1

I've been having the same recurring daydream about Abby lately but since my memory is awful and I keep forgetting parts, I've decided to start writing it down and I figured I would share some of it. I think this will be structured like a mini-series and be broken up into a few parts.

Summary and a bit of character background: This takes place in a bookstore where the reader works. The owner of the bookstore, Jen, is your aunt and she is married to your other aunt, Cathy, who works at the same hospital as Jerry. The two of them moved from your home state to Seattle when you were just a kid and quickly became close with Jerry and Abby. When you decided to move to Seattle for college your aunts really wanted to introduce you to Abby but, being introverted, you always made excuses to avoid meeting her until today.

Pairing: Abby Anderson x Fem!Reader (modern au)

Word count: 2,043

Warnings: reader is a bit awkward, some cursing, some grammatical errors

part 2 ⚢ part 3

A/N: When I originally wrote this, I wrote with myself in mind, but I have since gone through to try to take out any physical descriptors about the reader. I’m sure I missed some lines or phrases so if you see a mistake, please let me know so I can fix it! Hope you enjoy!!

•❅──✧❅✦❅✧──❅••❅──✧❅✦❅✧──❅••❅──✧❅✦❅✧──❅•

While on a jog one Saturday morning Abby decided to go a different route than normal. She decided to jog through town on a path that would take her right past Jen’s bookstore. She came up to a red light and stopped to stretch while she waited for her turn to cross the street. As she stretched, she looked in the windows of Jen’s bookstore and that’s when she saw the most beautiful girl behind the counter. There you were chatting with a customer while you rang them up and Abby couldn’t take her eyes off you. She had seen beautiful women before but something about you pulled her in, it felt like she was in a trance.

She snapped out of it when the people around her started crossing the street and her body seemed to propel her forward. As she passed the bookstore, she had the fleeting thought to go in and try to talk to you but then she figured that meeting someone while you’re a sweaty mess might not be the best first impression. She continued her run and decided that she would stop by the store the next day and try to strike up a conversation with you.

Normally Abby doesn’t get nervous, she’s a very confident person, but as she came up to the bookstore the next day, her stomach was in knots. All at once, she had all these worries and doubts in her head.

What if you weren’t there?

What if you were already in a relationship?

What if you were straight?

She pushed through the worries and entered the store only to be greeted by Jen. Abby returned the greeting and tried to play it cool, she didn’t want to be too obvious that she was looking for you. Jen asked if there was anything Abby was looking for and after she told her that she was just browsing she took off to walk through the store in hopes of finding you.

For you, this Sunday morning had been like most of your mornings lately. You went to the bookstore to open with Jen and decided to spend the morning organizing the displays and taking stock. Earlier in the week the store had gotten a shipment of some best-selling books but for some reason one of the other employees had brought them upstairs. After your aunt told you this, you went to the 2nd floor to collect the books and bring them back to the main floor where they should have been placed.

You hadn’t realized how many books there would be, but determined to make it all in one trip you stacked the books to make a tower and attempted to walk with them. The tower blocked your line of sight, but since the store had just opened and there weren’t many customers so far, you figured it would be fine to walk down the stairs with all the books.

Things were going great until you got to the doorway for the stairwell. Suddenly, you collided with a solid mass and ended up flat on your ass with the books scattered around you. You were sure that you had just accidentally run into the wall when you looked up and saw a person standing in the doorway. You had to admit that the woman in front of you was gorgeous, but you also started to panic considering you had just smashed into a customer.

“Oh my god, I am so sorry! I didn’t think anyone would be coming up here. This is completely my fault, are you okay?”

It took Abby a few seconds to realize what had just happened. The girl that she was hoping to see had just smashed into her and was now on the floor, but you were asking if she was okay? Abby reassured you that she was okay and asked you the same while stooping down to help pick up the books. As you and Abby picked up the fallen books you continued to apologize.

“Thank you for helping me get those. You can just put those on this table, and I’ll come back to get them after I bring these down,” you said as you motioned your head to a half-empty display table behind you.

“Or I can help you carry them down, I don’t mind,” Abby added when she thought that you would oppose.

After a few seconds of thinking it over you relented, “Okay, that would be great. I was just taking them down to the first floor.”

Abby stepped out of the way so that you could make your way down the stairs with her following behind. You two made your way over to the counter and set down the piles of books.

“Thank you for your help, and sorry again for running into you.” You said as you made your way behind the counter.

“Don’t worry about it.” Abby insisted.

Standing there, you were finally able to get a good look at her and you had to say that your initial impression of her was right. She was ridiculously pretty with tons of freckles, beautiful grey eyes, and her hair pulled back in a braid with some pieces framing her face. She cleared her throat, and you realized that you had been staring at her for a bit too long. You felt your face begin to heat but before you could make up an excuse and run away, Aunt Jen popped up.

“Oh, there you are... and you met Abby! Finally, we’ve been trying to get you two to meet for ages!” she said as she excitedly clapped her hands together.

That name was familiar, and you realized all at once that this was the famous Abby that your aunts wanted you to meet when you first moved to Seattle. The Abby that they were convinced would be your new bestie if they could just get you two in a room together. They had conveniently forgotten to tell you how beautiful she is.

It seemed at that moment Abby also put two and two together because she turned back to you and asked, “Wait, are you y/n?” Jen and Cathy had mentioned that their niece would sometimes help with the bookstore, but your paths never seemed to cross when she had stopped by before (she would have remembered if had she seen you).

“Yeah, and you’re Abby?” You questioned back, trying to process this all. The cute girl that you had just been ogling was someone that your aunts practically considered as another niece. (Did this mean she was like your honorary cousin? You shuddered just thinking about it.)

Aunt Jen, not realizing what she had just stumbled upon (or maybe completely realizing) continued to talk, “Yes, y/n this is Abby, Abby this is y/n. Cathy and I have wanted to introduce you two to each other for the longest time.”

“It’s nice to finally meet you Abby,” you finally piped up.

“Yeah, you too, I’ve heard great things.” She replied.

“So, Abby did you find a good book? You know if you need help y/n is great at helping people find books. You just tell her what you like, and she’ll give you recommendations.” Jen said as she stepped behind the counter with you and squeezed your shoulders.

With that Abby turned to you and asked, “Would you be able to help me find something?” She was willing to find any reason to continue to be around you.

“Of course,” you said as you stepped away from the counter and started to walk with Abby back upstairs while Jen manned the register. “What kind of books do you normally gravitate towards?”

After Abby answered a few more questions you were able to find out that she normally reads classic lit and fiction and was interested in getting into fantasy and sci-fi. Using this information, and pairing it with your own curiosity, you decided to recommend some sapphic fantasy and sci-fi books.

You two walked over to the fantasy section, and you looked for the books that you thought she would like. “This is one of my favorites,” you said while holding up ‘This is How You Lose the Time War.’ “It’s a pretty short read, only a little over 200 pages, but it’s fantastic!” Next, you grabbed ‘The Priory of the Orange Tree.’ “Now I realize that this book looks intimidating,” you chuckled as you watched Abby’s eyes slightly widen at the nearly 850-page book, “but trust me, it’s worth it. There’s tons of action and you really get immersed into the characters and their lives.” You grabbed the last book off the shelf and held it up. “‘That Self-Same Metal’ is a great book too, it’s YA and includes some Fae lore as well if you think you would be into that.”

You conveniently forgot to mention that all these books have sapphic characters/ relationships, but you were hopeful that if she read any of these, you could gauge her reaction when you saw her again.

Abby decided to start with ‘This is How You Lose the Time War’ and you walked her up to the front to check her out.

“I hope you like it, maybe if we run into each other again you can tell me your thoughts,” you said with a small smile that Abby reciprocated.

“Definitely, but hopefully next time you won’t be carrying a stack of books,” Abby responded with a teasing smirk that had you fighting to keep your smile from stretching too big.

You handed her the receipt and wished her a great day. You watched as she left the store and as she walked past the display window, she turned and gave you a little wave. You were so distracted with returning her wave that you didn’t hear Jen walk up beside you.

“So, what do you think of Abby?” Jen asked as you nearly jumped out of your skin.

“She seems nice,” you replied trying to be cool about it.

“Hmm, nice…” Jen responded as she scanned you from head to toe, sizing you up.

Wanting to avoid the impeding interrogation you told Jen that you were going to set up a display and made your escape. For the rest of the day, you couldn’t stop yourself from thinking about Abby and wondering when you would see her again.

Later that week, Abby had come back to the bookstore after she had finished the book you recommended to her. She loved it and wanted to tell you her thoughts, but as she walked through the store you were nowhere to be found. She bumped into Jen who told her that you were out that day, but you would be back on Saturday. Abby was disappointed that she wouldn't get to see you, but she made sure to come back on Saturday morning and just like Jen said, there you were. You greeted Abby with a soft smile that made her feel a little fuzzy and asked her to give an honest rating of the book.

You two ended up talking about the book in depth. Abby spent about 2 hours following you around as you worked and you two shared your thoughts (she also seemed to enjoy the romance subplot which you decided to take as a good sign). Before Abby left the store that morning she bought ‘That Self-Same Metal’ and promised to be back next week to share her thoughts.

This started a bit of a tradition between you two. Abby would buy and read the books that you recommended and then the next week you would have elaborate discussions about what she had just read.

By the 4th book debrief, as you liked to call them, you asked Abby for some of her own recommendations. Almost immediately after Abby had told you some of her favorites, she got nervous that you wouldn’t like them but of course you did and that made her ecstatic (she could go on about her favorite books for days). It soon became both of your favorite parts of the week, and you would happily ignore your aunt’s teasing every Saturday morning if it meant that you got to see Abby.

#abby anderson #abby anderson headcanons #abby anderson imagine #abby anderson tlou2 #abby anderson x reader #abby anderson drabble #abby anderson blurb #abby anderson hcs

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